SNAPSHOT
- Client: Online Retailer
- Challenge: High packaging waste and carbon footprint from single-use cardboard boxes
- Solution: Replaced disposable cartons with durable reusable boxes
- Results: 87% reduction in CO₂e emissions per package over its lifecycle
FULL CASE
Challenge
An e-commerce retailer, shipping thousands of small packages (shoe box size) per month, sought to reduce the environmental impact of its packaging. The use of single-use cardboard cartons resulted in high waste and implied significant CO₂e emissions. With growing customer demand for sustainable practices, the company needed an innovative solution.
Solution
The retailer introduced a reusable packaging system, replacing disposable boxes with durable, returnable boxes designed to withstand 100 cycles of reuse. Efficient reverse logistics was integrated into existing packing and courier operations.
Results
- CO₂e Reduction: Lifecycle emissions per package cut by 87%.
- Circular Efficiency: Each box used up to 100 times, drastically reducing resource consumption
- Customer Appeal: Positive feedback from eco-conscious shoppers
- Cost Control: Reduced spending on disposable packaging in mid to long term
Calculation Note: Emission savings are based on replacing a single-use cardboard box (shoe box size) with a reusable alternative, considering the box’s reuse for 100 cycles and the average reverse logistics route of 400 km.
🙋♂️“Switching to reusable packaging not only helped us reduce waste and related emissions but also strengthened our brand image. Customers appreciate the effort, and we see cost benefits within the first year of implementation.” – Customer Satisfaction Manager
Image by Drazen Zigic on Freepik
