The Plastic Reuse Revolution
The environmental challenge of plastic calls for urgent action. In Chile, the Extended Producer Responsibility Law (REP) is moving towards sustainability, regulating packaging from September 2023. However, the changes needed to radically transform production and consumption models require a new strategy: the adoption of reuse schemes.
Below, we explore the most relevant proposals from the report on the Detailed Design of a Public Policy to Prevent the Generation of Packaging Waste in Chile and Impact Analysis 2024 published today by Oceana and how these can revolutionize our path towards a circular economy.
The power of reuse in the circular economy
Reuse is positioned as a more sustainable solution compared to the linear model of use and throw away. In addition to reducing plastic waste, this practice offers significant economic and environmental benefits:
Up to 25% reduction in costs for certain categories such as cleaning products.
Global economic opportunities of 10 billion dollars by replacing only 20% of single-use plastic packaging.
How is Chile facing this challenge?
The report proposes a detailed roadmap for implementing policies that promote reuse, highlighting three key measures:
- Reduction targets for producers, with financial incentives.
- Mandatory spaces at points of sale for reuse solutions.
- Assignment of clear responsibilities for packaging sustainability.
These initiatives not only seek to prevent the generation of waste, but also to encourage innovation in reusable packaging, adapting collective management systems (CMS) to the challenge.
Categories with the greatest potential for reuse
The report’s analysis identifies priority areas for implementing reuse schemes:
- Home and personal care: Alternatives such as refill stations (EcoCarga) are revolutionizing the market.
- Pantry foods: Bulk sales solutions gain traction, but face logistical challenges.
- Prepared foods and beverages: Returnable packaging is a clear opportunity, driven by regulations such as the Single-Use Plastics Act.
Each category has technical and cultural challenges, from reverse logistics to consumer acceptance.
Expected impact of these policies
The implementation of these measures would allow:
- Significant reduction of waste: Less need for sorting plants and collection logistics.
- Promotion of innovation: Investment in systems such as refill stations and washing lines for returnable bottles.
- Education and cultural change: Encourage consumers to adopt models of reuse and responsible collection.
Challenges to overcome
To achieve success, we must address significant barriers:
- High initial costs: For example, a washing line for glass bottles can cost up to CLP $8.5 billion.
- Logistical complexity: Implementing collection, sorting and washing systems on a national scale requires time and coordination.
- Change of mentality: Educating ourselves as consumers to prefer reusable alternatives.
The role of companies in change
Companies like Mercado Circular are already leading the way with innovative solutions, such as refill stations and returnable packaging, that not only reduce costs, but also educate the consumer. This commitment must be accompanied by public policies that encourage and facilitate the transition.
The future of reuse in Chile depends on collective action. From producers to consumers, we all have a role in this transformation. With adequate policies and the commitment of the private sector, we can achieve a more circular economy, where plastic stops being a problem and becomes an opportunity.