Returnable packaging scheme launches for Highland businesses | Packaging Scotland

BUSINESSES across the Highlands are being invited to sign up to a free pilot of an innovative new returnable packaging scheme.

The initiative will see businesses trial a QR code-based app which allows customers to choose reusable packaging at the point of sale, with the packs then being returnable to any participating business.

Launched by the Highland Community Waste Partnership (HCWP), in collaboration with German sustainable reusable packaging system Vytal, it is hoped that 20 business across the region sign up.

Each participant will be receive a pool of packaging of their choosing – ranging from cups, bowls, tubs, to pizza boxes – as well as support in setting up and running the scheme. This will include staff training and campaign materials.

The scheme will look to build on environmental Keep Scotland Beautiful’s Highland Cup Movement campaign which used the same technology and infrastructure – saving more than 1,000 single-use cups from landfill.

Ellie Campbell, HCWP project officer at Keep Scotland Beautiful, said, “Making the change from single-use to reusable products is essential if we are to reduce packaging waste and tackle the climate and litter emergency. Returnable packaging schemes are a key part of this, allowing for the spontaneity and convenience of food and drink on-the-go, without relying on disposable packaging or on consumers bringing their own reusables.

“This scheme will allow businesses across the Highlands to try out the system and encourage customers to #ChooseToReuse. The Highland Cup Movement was a great success in showing the potential in the area for reusable and returnable packaging products.

“I’m looking forward to seeing more businesses sign up, helping to expand on this work and bring the Highlands one step closer to more conscious, circular and sustainable models of consumption.”

Tristan Aitchison, XOKO Bakehouse and Coffee Bar, who participated in the Highland Cup Movement last summer and is now continuing with the scheme, added, “It’s really important for XOKO to reduce our single use packaging consumption because, a) it costs us money, and b) we are aware of how much single use packaging we use and so any way  we can reduce that, and as a progressive business we want to reduce that any way we can, so Vytal is a key part in our moving forward to reduce single-use packaging.”

Peter Simon, MD of Vytal, commented, “We are excited to once again support Keep Scotland Beautiful in their effort to preserve our environment. Our commitment to sustainability perfectly aligns with the HCWP’s mission to reduce waste and promote more conscious consumption. Together, we can create a cleaner, greener future for the Highland community, preserving our natural landscapes for future generations.”

Highland businesses can find out more about the trial by clicking here.