DBU: Reusable alliance instead of disposable goods

Reusable systems already exist in Germany for drinks, dairy products and transport crates, for example. At the same time, however, suppliers are developing additional recycling models for other products such as oils, cosmetics, dry goods or products from the to-go sector - albeit primarily as stand-alone solutions and not coordinated with each other. „In short, there is a lack of an efficient, comprehensive strategy,“ says the DBU Secretary General.

The Reusable Alliance wants to resolve this dilemma: Mechanisms are to be created to harmonise the reusable systems - for example, to coordinate return and rinsing logistics. Another task is to raise consumer awareness of the need to change course. Bonde: „We all have a role to play here. Then a switch to reusable can succeed.“

However, the DBU Secretary General is very optimistic in this respect. This is because the consortium of project participants relies on an extensive network with great expertise. In addition to companies and start-ups that offer reusable innovations, there are also so-called final distributors with direct customer contact - including catering, food retail and delivery services. Also involved are dishwashing suppliers, logistics and recycling companies as well as associations, politics, science and society. This broad alliance will begin its work in April. In the first phase until the end of 2023, the focus will be on development and implementation; next year, the main focus will be on the question of how the processes can be measured and scaled.