Efforts to scale reusable packaging systems in Europe are entering a new phase, marked by increased cross-border collaboration and practical experimentation. A major step forward is the Interpool project, which brings together Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, and northern France to develop interoperable systems for reusable glass containers and transport packaging—an unprecedented initiative in the European context.
While reuse systems already exist in each of these countries, they typically operate within national boundaries. This fragmentation contrasts with the reality of integrated European supply chains and consumer behavior, which regularly transcend borders. Interpool, funded under the EU’s Interreg programme and running until 2029, aims to address this gap by identifying the technical, logistical, and regulatory barriers that currently prevent reuse systems from scaling internationally.
The project is structured in two phases. First, partners are mapping existing systems to assess bottlenecks and define the conditions needed for cross-border functionality. This analytical work will then be tested through pilot projects starting in late 2027, providing real-world validation of proposed solutions. The timing aligns closely with the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation targets, which call for a 5% reduction in packaging waste per capita and set mandatory reuse targets for transport and beverage packaging by 2030.
Glass has emerged as a priority material within this effort due to its durability and ease of cleaning. However, current reuse models remain highly fragmented, limiting their effectiveness at scale. Interpool seeks to harmonize these systems, making them more accessible and user-friendly across national markets.
Within this consortium, Fost Plus plays a central role as both expert and facilitator. Together with Valipac, it is responsible for shaping the joint action plan and coordinating pilot activities. For participating companies, this provides early insights into scalable reuse models and practical steps needed to meet 2030 targets.
In parallel with these cross-border efforts, innovation is also advancing at the national level. A notable example is the BringMeBag project in Belgium, which focuses on reusable packaging for e-commerce deliveries—an area where reuse has traditionally been difficult to implement.
BringMeBag addresses key operational challenges such as cost efficiency, return logistics, and user convenience through a system built on standardisation, traceability, and integration into existing infrastructure. A single, shared packaging format is used across multiple retailers, while digital tracking enables efficient return flows and rotation cycles. By leveraging existing postal networks, including parcel lockers, the system avoids the need for entirely new logistics channels.
The initiative is supported by a broad consortium including bpost, retailers such as Torfs and Juttu, research institutions, and Fost Plus. Within this framework, Fost Plus contributes its expertise in developing scalable business models and analyzing consumer behavior—both critical to ensuring long-term adoption of reuse systems.
Together, Interpool and BringMeBag illustrate a complementary approach to advancing circular packaging in Europe. While Interpool tackles systemic barriers at the cross-border level, BringMeBag tests practical solutions in a specific and rapidly growing segment. Both initiatives underline a shared conclusion: achieving meaningful progress in reuse will require not only regulatory ambition, but also coordinated action, industry collaboration, and user-centric system design.