[E-commerce] Towards a sustainable future thanks to reusable packaging

The Environmental Impact of Disposables and E-commerce

1.5 billion* is the number of parcels shipped in France each year that end up in the bin a few minutes after opening. This plastic or cardboard packaging is collected and sent to a sorting centre to be incinerated or recycled (63% of cardboard packaging is recycled, compared to 24.5% of plastic).
This recycling is not without impact, as it is a water- and energy-intensive process.

With e-commerce growing by more than 10%** every year, the impact of e-commerce waste is an increasingly important issue.

France is tackling this issue: the innovative AGEC law

In response to these observations, French legislation introduced the Anti-Waste Law for a Circular Economy (AGEC). This law, which came into force in January 2023, aims to reduce waste by gradually imposing the reuse of packaging, including that used in online commerce.

The aim of the AGEC law is for all companies to achieve 10% reuse of packaging each year by 2027, with gradual implementation over the years. (See table below):

This legislation is a real driver of change for companies and a pillar of reusable packaging!

To support companies in this transition, funding is available through eco-organisations such as LEKO, CITEO and ADEME.

Reusable packaging for zero-waste delivery: Opopop packaging

The French start-up Opopop, an expert in reusable packaging since 2020, offers a solution of reusable and returnable parcels for zero-waste e-commerce and logistics deliveries.

Reusable parcels for zero-waste delivery: Opopop parcels

The French start-up Opopop, an expert in reusable packaging since 2020, offers a solution of reusable and returnable parcels for zero-waste e-commerce and logistics deliveries.

How does it work in practice?

1. The consumer chooses the option on the e-merchant’s website, then registers their deposit on the Opopop platform, OP!
2. The order is unpacked and the parcel is returned (using a pre-stamped label) in a yellow La Poste box, OP!
3. The Opopop team receives the parcel, prepares it for its next cycle and the consumer’s deposit is refunded, OP!

Opopop reusable parcels are eco-designed and made from upcycled, water-repellent and resistant materials from the ends of rolls in the textile industry. These parcels are designed to be reused up to 100 times!

Partner companies either rent packaging on a per-shipment basis (cost per use) or purchase a fleet of reusable packaging.
For example, the Laines Paysannes website has been using reusable packaging since 2020 and offers this option to its customers. Opopop provides them with reusable packaging that Laines Paysannes rents on a per-use basis. The logistics teams package the orders as normal and their customers return them in any yellow Post Office box.

Opopop monitors the users (in particular via the deposit system, collection and repackaging so that they can be shipped again. 97% of the parcels are returned in each cycle!
Opopop also works with companies on internal flows (between warehouses, between shops), click & collect deliveries, or with clothing rental companies.

Opopop also works with companies on internal flows (between warehouses, between shops), click & collect deliveries, or with clothing rental companies. The company offers packaging rental or the design and manufacture of personalised packaging.

Reusable packaging: a positive impact for e-retailers!

The first impact is obviously environmental.
Thanks to a life cycle analysis, Opopop has measured the impact of its reusable packaging.

• From two cycles onwards, the Opopop reusable parcel is more advantageous than recycled cardboard (measurement taken on the large pouch).
• An order in Opopop packagingavoids up to 89% of CO2 compared to an order in disposable packaging.
• Each parcel will avoid up to 5kg of single-use packaging waste in its lifetime.
• In 2023, 100,000 tonnes of waste were avoided thanks to Opopop parcels!*
  *(source: LCA carried out by Opopop and the Mü Cooperative in 2022.

 

The reusable packages clearly stand out compared to disposable packaging. They have many advantages:

• Reduced environmental impact: By reducing the amount of waste, the ecological footprint is optimised, while meeting the requirements of the AGEC law.
• Logistical efficiency: Opopop is a turnkey service, with a parcel return rate of 97% guaranteed by the deposit!
• Concrete proof of commitment as a brand and allows for measurable progress in the CSR strategy.
• Boosted brand image and customer satisfaction: These packaging solutions are not only an environmentally friendly choice, but also an asset for the customer experience.
  They enable us to stand out in an increasingly competitive market, while meeting the expectations of consumers, who are increasingly sensitive to sustainable development issues.

Users give the parcel experience a score of4.89/5 and 91% of consumers who have received their order in an Opopop parcel indicate that they are willing to recommend the brand.***

“It’s great to be able to place an order online without our parcel becoming waste. The service is smooth, super easy to adopt, and we want to find Opopop EVERYWHERE!” – Review by Youmna, user.

“I would like to implement reusable packaging in my company. How can I do this?

Are you convinced by the advantages of reusable packaging and want to adopt this solution? You are one of the pioneers of e-commerce!
You can contact Opopop to discuss your needs and find a suitable solution.
The Opopop team will help you:
1. Identify the flows that are suitable for implementing the package
2. Provide a suitable solution
3. Finance your transition
4. Implement the package with your logistics and e-commerce teams!
Contact the Opopop experts: colis@opopop.co
3. Get your transition funded
4. Implement the package with your logistics and e-commerce teams!

Contact the Opopop experts: colis@opopop.co

* source: ARCEP
** https://www.leptidigital.fr/actualites/chiffres-cles-e-commerce-59294/
***(study conducted on our users in 2022)