OUTER PLANET 54 PETplanet Insider Vol. 26 No. 10/25 www.petpla.net OUTER PLANET Environment and climate evolving 2025–2030 Nordic Co-operation programme The co-operation programme builds on the mission of the Nordic Council of Ministers to realise the vision of a Nordic Region that is the most sustainable and integrated region in the world by 2030. The Co-operation Programme for 2025–2030 is also guided by what the UN has referred to as the triple crisis. By focusing on climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, plus focusing on circular economy, the programme seeks to strengthen Nordic co-operation in areas where the region can achieve the greatest benefits. The Co-operation Programme for 2025–2030 highlights both the challenges and the opportunities that can help address them. To facilitate a shift towards greater sustainability in the Nordics, the study: “LCA on reuse of packaging in the Nordics - A case of comparing reusable alternatives to current disposable packaging” provides an in-depth analysis of the environmental impacts associated with different types of packaging. Emphasis is placed on reusable packaging, investigating its lifecycle impacts from production to disposal and contrasting it with conventional, single-use packaging. Results comparative LCA – takeaway containers The study presents a comprehensive comparative Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of takeaway packaging options. The results of the study established that in terms of environmental impacts, reusable containers are generally less impactful than single-use containers across 11 out of 13 impact categories. Raw materials and manufacturing stages were key contributors to the environmental impacts of single-use packaging. For reusable containers, the impacts were more evenly distributed across life cycle stages, from raw material acquisition to the manufacture and use phase. Results from sensitivity analysis tests also supported the base case - reusable containers consistently showed a lower environmental impact than single-use options in most tested categories. Factors like container weight, consumer behaviour (such as avoiding pre-washing during the use phase or avoiding energy-intensive transportation methods), and various end-of-life modelling parameters all demonstrated the relative environmental advantage of reusable containers. Tests of different parameters influenced by consumer behaviour revealed that reuse rates are crucial for reusable containers; reaching the environmentally preferred break-even point requires a minimum of six uses. However, for the environmental benefits of the reusable containers in all impact categories, 14 repeated uses are necessary. Furthermore, environmental impact can be minimised by choosing low/no emission transportation methods and avoiding unnecessary cleaning. The study highlights the significance of the number of reuses in a reusable container system to reach the potential environmental benefits. Thus, for successful implementation, strategic design and planning of the reusable container system are vital. Guidelines and incentives should be established to influence consumer behaviour positively. Encouragement to adopt behaviours like swift container return and avoiding redundant washing can improve the relative benefit of reusable systems. This approach could ultimately lead to the optimal use of the system and bring about its environmental benefits. In conclusion, this study affirms the environmental preference for reusable takeaway containers in Nordic countries – demonstrating high robustness. From this study, a number of conclusions and recommendations have emerged supporting transitioning from single-use to reusable packaging. In designing reusable packaging, factors such as durability, low weight, recyclability, and use of recycled materials are essential to consider. Also, establishing efficient reuse systems and incentivising consumers to choose reusable packaging and return the packaging, is crucial. Looking towards a European setting for the upstream stages, it became clear that local supply chains and less energy-intensive transportation can also play a role in reducing environmental impacts. Lastly, the study highlighted the importance of proper waste segregation and treatment at the end of a product’s life, supporting a more circular economy. In conclusion, it’s evident that these factors make it a complex equation to achieve the lowest environmental impact. Yet, this study affirms the potential and value of embracing reusable packaging in Nordic countries with the correct set-up and incentives, leading to a more sustainable future. Have a look at the whole study: wwww.norden.org/en/publication/ lca-reuse-packaging-nordics www.pub.norden.org/ politiknord2024-725/index.html
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