According to Wikipedia reusable packaging is as follows:
“Reusable packaging is manufactured of durable materials and is specifically designed for multiple trips and extended life.”
So as we can see, for packaging to be considered reusable there are a few simple criteria:
- be durable
- be designed for multiple trips
- have an extended life-span
When looking at these criteria I think we sometimes confuse reusable with recyclable.
Notice there’s not a peep about whet the packaging is actually made of – that isn’t a criteria.
Here’s a contrarian thought – could increasing the use of durable, reusable plastics actually help the environment by reducing the use of disposable plastics?
Is there a ‘middle ground’ for plastics after all?
I believe there is.
But that doesn’t mean we should be complacent – we must continue to reduce plastic waste and do everything we can to find viable packaging alternatives.