RCTP Urges EU to Prioritize Reusable Transport Packaging in Circular Economy Act

The Roundtable for Reusable Containers, Trays and Pallets (RCTP) has called on European policymakers to place reusable transport packaging (RTP) at the center of the European Commission’s proposed Circular Economy Act, arguing that reuse systems should be recognized as a strategic component of resilient and competitive supply chains.

The appeal accompanies the publication of RCTP’s position paper and the launch of its “Europe Deserves Less” campaign, which advocates greater policy support for reusable transport packaging across sectors including automotive, manufacturing, food, retail and healthcare.

According to the organization, current policy discussions surrounding the Circular Economy Act have largely focused on recycling, secondary raw materials and waste management. RCTP argues that greater attention should be given to reuse systems, which it says already deliver measurable economic, environmental and operational benefits across European industries.

In its recommendations, RCTP calls on the European Commission to align the legislation with the EU waste hierarchy by prioritizing waste prevention and reuse. The group also proposes harmonizing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes across member states, introducing eco-modulated fees that reward waste prevention, and exempting reusable transport packaging from EPR charges.

The organization further recommends that public procurement policies be used to encourage reusable packaging solutions where practical alternatives exist. It also urges the Commission to establish certification requirements for reusable transport packaging imported from non-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries to ensure consistent quality standards and fair competition within the EU market.

RCTP supports its proposals with research from Germany’s Fraunhofer Institute. According to one study cited by the organization, wider adoption of reusable transport packaging in the fruit and vegetable sector could reduce product losses valued at nearly €100 million per year by improving protection during transport and handling.

A separate Fraunhofer analysis cited by the Roundtable found that reusable transport packaging can remain in service for up to 15 years and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 90% over its lifecycle compared with single-use alternatives. The study also reported lower energy and freshwater consumption associated with reusable systems.

The Circular Economy Act is expected to become a key element of the European Union’s broader strategy to strengthen industrial competitiveness, resource efficiency and supply chain resilience while advancing circular economy objectives.

Source: Packaging Europe

SUNSHINE Spotlight: Industry groups are urging the EU to give reusable transport packaging a greater role in the Circular Economy Act, arguing that reuse systems can complement recycling while reducing waste, emissions and supply chain costs.