78 organisations from the reuse sector are calling on the EU to define a clear and legally compliant reuse symbol. Led by the New European Reuse Alliance and Reusable Packaging Europe, they outline requirements for the symbol, criteria and enforcement within the framework of the new PPWR packaging regulation in a joint paper.
The signatories support the PPWR requirement for a reusability label and aim to rule out greenwashing. The symbol should only appear on packaging that is demonstrably operated in a reuse system, is designed for repeated use and achieves a minimum number of rotations. They are also calling for consistency between the future delegated acts on minimum rotations and labelling as well as verifiability via traceable systems or certified average values. The industry expects implementation acts for labelling by August 2026.
Application criteria for the reuse symbol
The symbol should only be used if the packaging is part of a functioning system for return, sorting, cleaning, repair and reissue. It must be designed to withstand repeated handling and filling and remain recyclable at the end of its life cycle. A high return rate is also required as proof of an effective system.
Enforcement and supervision
To ensure the credibility of labelling, the organisations are proposing EU-wide standardised guidelines, supplemented by sector-specific information. False labelling should result in sanctions. National or EU authorities and authorised NGOs should check compliance without any additional cost burden for rice operators. Accompanying information measures should explain the meaning of the symbol to users and consumers. Additional protection is being discussed in the form of a quality or certification mark; the reusable mark established in Germany, which is used by means of licences and audits, is cited as an example.
Special case of transport packaging
For reusable transport packaging in B2B pooling systems, the industry is in favour of not physically attaching the symbol to each crate or pallet. The reasons given for this are already established identification and tracking solutions, high return rates and the stresses and strains in the handling process, which would wear off the stickers or labels. Instead, the labelling should take place in the accompanying digital documentation, for example in shipping or rental documents. This takes account of operational realities and fulfils the PPWR logic without creating duplication of effort.
Design of the symbol
In the view of the signatories, the reuse logo should communicate clearly without being confused with existing symbols - such as the recycling symbol. It should be standardised across Europe, easily recognisable, simple to reproduce, easy to read in different sizes, culturally compatible and encourage the use of reusable packaging. The paper also refers to the ongoing global "Rebrand Reuse" initiative.
Source: Reusable Packaging Europe
