The 2024 specifications for the household packaging and graphic paper sector set out new responsibilities for approved eco-organizations.
Reuse is now one of the main priorities, along with a financial contribution to take-back/collection operations for reusable packaging brought back by consumers. They must also work on the standardization of reusable packaging. To this end, Léko supports the work of the Réseau Vrac et Réemploi, with whom it cooperates, on the standardization of packaging for beverages and other food packaging.
Winners of our Call for Reuse Projects
Léko is delighted to announce the winners of the latest Appel à Projets Réemploi 2023. These initiatives, supported by Léko, have demonstrated a significant commitment to sustainability and waste reduction. Each of these projects, supported by Léko, represents a significant step forward in the development of Reemploi in France. We look forward to seeing how these initiatives will inspire and motivate a growing number of retailers.
Collectif IMPEC / Bernypack / Bibak / Clarence Bordeaux / Club Maté / L'unik Opack / Comm'une bouteille / CRC BN / Distro / Ekolector / Le Chambon Feugerolles / Oé / Opopop / Olival d'Ouro / Rebooteille / RVM conception / Pack en transition
Focus on the DROPACK project
Among the winners of Léko's call for re-use projects is the DROPACK project, which, against a backdrop of growing concern about the environmental impact of food packaging, has been launched to develop a sustainable packaging solution. This project, led by Pack En Transition for Léa Nature, an early Léko member, and two other manufacturers (Sill and Olga), combines standardization, innovation and pooling. It aims to rethink packaging for fresh and frozen delicatessen dishes, as well as dairy products, by creating a standard reusable plastic tray.
Standardization :
The primary objective is to develop a standard reusable tray format, anticipating a future range of reusable packaging by different brands and manufacturers. This begins with the creation of a trial mold and in-depth testing of several plastics such as polypropylene (PP), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and glycolized polyethylene terephthalate (PETG). The reusability of these materials will be compared with single-use packaging made of plastic, cardboard and wood, or reusable alternatives made of stainless steel or glass. In-depth studies on life-cycle analysis, technical and economic aspects will also be carried out. In addition, experiments involving several filling, use, washing and sealing cycles will be carried out to assess the performance of reusable trays under real production conditions.
Innovation
The innovation is based on research and development work to define and test the integrity criteria for reusable plastic packaging. This will involve bacteriological, mechanical, dimensional, food contact and organoleptic testing. Associated protocols will be developed in collaboration with specialized laboratories. Tests will be carried out on trays from the pilot mold in the three identified materials.
Pooling
The aim is to develop shared logistics for the collection, washing and redistribution of reusable trays. This will involve defining the consumer pathway, drawing up a logistics plan, assessing the industrial impact and proposing a viable economic model. In-store trials will be carried out in two distribution networks, including Biocoop, to assess the efficiency and feasibility of this shared logistics system.
This project therefore represents a crucial initiative in the search for sustainable solutions for food packaging and the reduction in the marketing of single-use packaging. By combining standardization, innovation and mutualization, it aims to meet environmental challenges while ensuring the practicality, safety and durability of food packaging for future generations.