Industry calls for reusable transport packaging in Circular Economy Act

The Roundtable for Reusable Containers, Trays and Pallets (RCTP) is calling on the European Commission to recognise reusable transport packaging (RTP) as a strategic element of the forthcoming Circular Economy Act (CEA), arguing that greater policy support could strengthen Europe's industrial competitiveness, supply chain resilience and resource efficiency.

In a new position paper, the organisation says the Circular Economy Act presents an opportunity to place greater emphasis on waste prevention alongside recycling, highlighting reusable transport packaging as an established circular solution already used across a wide range of European industries.

According to the RCTP, reusable containers, trays and pallets form an important part of supply chains serving sectors including automotive, agriculture, manufacturing, retail and pharmaceuticals. By remaining in circulation for many years, the organisation says reusable transport packaging can help reduce demand for virgin raw materials, lower lifecycle costs and support more resilient logistics networks.

The position paper argues that current policy discussions surrounding the Circular Economy Act have focused primarily on recycling, secondary raw materials and waste management, while giving less attention to reuse systems that prevent waste from being generated in the first place.

Among its recommendations, the RCTP is calling on the European Commission to explicitly recognise reuse within the Circular Economy Act and ensure future policy remains aligned with the EU waste hierarchy, which prioritises waste prevention.

The organisation also proposes greater harmonisation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes across Member States through a centralised EU register and more consistent reporting requirements. In addition, it argues that reusable transport packaging should be exempt from EPR fees because of its role in preventing waste and remaining in circulation over extended periods.

The position paper further recommends using public procurement to encourage wider adoption of reusable transport packaging, suggesting that public sector organisations should consider reusable systems where appropriate when purchasing goods and services.

In relation to imports, the RCTP is also calling for certification and verification requirements for reusable transport packaging imported from outside the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), stating that such measures would help ensure compliance with EU standards while supporting fair competition.

The Circular Economy Act is expected to build on wider EU initiatives aimed at improving resource efficiency, strengthening industrial competitiveness and reducing dependence on virgin raw materials. The RCTP said recognising reuse within the legislation would help ensure reusable transport packaging continues to contribute to Europe's circular economy objectives.