Stocktake of reusable packaging for fast-moving consumer goods in the Waikato region

In 2022, Waikato Regional Council commissioned us to undertake a stocktake on reusable packaging systems for groceries and consumer goods in the region. The research revealed 95 distinct reusable packaging systems. We noted uneven access to these systems, with small businesses dominating returnable and refill options, while large companies manage transport packaging. The study concludes that Waikato needs improved infrastructure to support efficient reverse logistics and reuse preparation across all packaging systems.

Reusable serviceware at markets (& events) in Aotearoa

This resource is designed to be a practical and accessible information sheet offering guidance on the key considerations for market operators and/or vendors wanting to set up viable reuse systems at events and markets. The resource sets out options for funding the system’s capital and operational costs, and important questions to ask in order to design a system that has the capacity to deliver for the market it will serve

B2B reusable packaging infrastructure and reverse logistics in Auckland

This report has a focus on the infrastructure and reverse logistics that make these systems work. The research aimed to find out what was happening in the city already in this area, the gaps and critical needs for doing more, and the potential role of the waste and resource recovery sector.

Reusable Packaging Systems in Nelson-Tasman, August 2022

Reusable Packaging Systems in Nelson-Tasman: What’s happening today, what’s possible tomorrow? provides a qualitative overview of the current scope and future potential of reusable packaging for food, beverage and other household goods in the Nelson-Tasman region, and highlights practical opportunities and recommended actions to grow the uptake of reusable packaging. 

Reusable Packaging in Aotearoa - getting back to the future, June 22

Reusable Packaging in Aotearoa paints a picture of current reusable packaging systems in New Zealand, outlines the barriers and opportunities for growth, and makes practical recommendations to councils, industry groups and government on how to support reuse. 

Reuse Aotearoa are an independent social enterprise at the forefront of reusable packaging research and conversations in New Zealand. Our mission is to scale up reusable packaging systems across Aotearoa, aiming for 30% market share in fast-moving consumer goods and takeaways by 2030. Through evidence-based research, we’re filling crucial knowledge gaps about reusable packaging opportunities in both B2B and B2C sectors.

Our work spans multiple regions, from Auckland, Waikato & Tauranga to Nelson/Tasman, providing tailored insights for local and central government, as well as businesses and community. We’re currently exploring measurement methods for reusable packaging impact in the grocery sector and investigating agricultural reusable packaging solutions in the Waikato region. Beyond research, we focus on communicating findings and fostering collaboration through webinars, blogs, and workshops.

Tauranga City Council is very happy to acknowledge Reuse Aotearoa’s useful insights, extensive industry knowledge and research experience. Their small but powerful team is moving the needle on the story of waste in Aotearoa.

Stephanie Keller-Busque

Tauranga City Council