Amazon reduces packaging material with the help of artificial intelligence

Amazon relies on an AI-based system to optimise its shipping packaging. The aim is not only to save packaging material, but also to improve sustainability in the shipping process. According to the company, over 2 million tonnes of packaging material have been saved worldwide since 2015.

Amazon relies on an AI-based system to optimise its shipping packaging. The aim is not only to save packaging material, but also to improve sustainability in the shipping process. According to the company, over 2 million tonnes of packaging material have been saved worldwide since 2015.

With the so-called „Package Decision Engine“, Amazon has developed an internal AI solution that determines the most suitable shipping packaging for each product. The system analyses a variety of factors, including size, weight, fragility and historical data on transport damage. The aim is to avoid oversized packaging and at the same time ensure product protection during transport.

The AI uses methods from machine learning, natural language processing and computer vision. Feedback from customers, for example about reviews and reasons for returns, is also incorporated into the further development of the algorithms. This will enable the system to continuously improve and respond to changing product portfolios and new packaging materials.

Avoiding plastic packaging and new materials

In addition to the use of AI to optimise packaging, Amazon says it has also made specific changes to its materials. In Europe, disposable plastic packaging is no longer used. Instead, 100 per cent recyclable cardboard and paper are used. Plastic bubble wrap has been replaced by recyclable paper.

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According to the company, these changes help to reduce shipping weight and increase the recyclability of materials - a step that should have a positive impact on both the ecological footprint and the carbon footprint of the supply chain.

CO₂ neutrality by 2040 as a long-term goal

The measures are part of a more comprehensive sustainability strategy. As part of the „Climate Pledge“ initiative, Amazon is aiming to become CO₂-neutral in all areas of the company by 2040. Packaging is considered a key area of action. The combination of data-supported decisions and the switch to more sustainable materials should help to achieve this goal.

Even if there are no concrete independent figures on the effectiveness of the measures in detail, initial results show positive developments according to Amazon. The company wants to further expand its data-based packaging optimisation and increase automation.

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