First-of-its-kind reusable takeaway packaging system launches in Denmark

First-of-its-kind reusable takeaway packaging system launches in Denmark

Sustainability

TOMRA and Aarhus municipality launch a groundbreaking three-year pilot, introducing an open system that shifts cities from single-use to reusable takeaway packaging.

The innovative approach, currently being tested in Aarhus, offers convenience for businesses and consumers, allowing packaging from various providers to be easily returned to shared automated collection points 24/7.

The system employs deposit reimbursements for high return rates and collaborates with Visa, MasterCard, and Shift4 for seamless contactless payments.

TOMRA manages the entire process, from automated collection to industrial sanitisation, ensuring scalability for a future where reusable packaging becomes the norm.

TOMRA launches world's first open managed system for reusable takeaway packaging © TOMRA
Nicolaj Bang, Alderman for Technical Services and Environment, Aarhus Municipality, said: Aarhus wants to be a greener and more sustainable city, and one which has the courage to test new solutions. That is why I am really happy that today Aarhus is launching its own deposit system for to-go cups, and that there are so many food establishments in the city that have already shown an interest in providing the cups. We have worked hard in recent years to make this happen, and now it’s time to really test its application in reality. I hope that the residents of Aarhus will embrace this new to-go cup system and that during this pilot project we will hopefully be able to take the next steps needed to expand the system to include several types of takeaway packaging.

The initiative, starting with hot and cold drink containers, aims to expand to cover various takeaway packaging materials, promoting resource efficiency, reducing litter, and creating local job opportunities.

Latest Packaging News

U.S. pet retailers recycle over 30 tonnes of packaging in Earth Day milestone
Sustainability

U.S. pet retailers recycle over 30 tonnes of packaging in Earth Day milestone

To mark Earth Day 2025 (22 April), U.S.-based pet retailers Pet Supplies Plus and Wag N' Wash have...
HEINEKEN joins global effort to scale reuse in drinks packaging
Sustainability

HEINEKEN joins global effort to scale reuse in drinks packaging

HEINEKEN has joined the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s Network as a Partner, with a focus on...
Iceland referred to EFTA Court over packaging waste and landfill regulation failures
Sustainability

Iceland referred to EFTA Court over packaging waste and landfill regulation failures

The EFTA Surveillance Authority (ESA) has referred Iceland to the EFTA Court over its alleged...
WRAP adds 8 more plastic packaging items to elimination list
Sustainability

WRAP adds 8 more plastic packaging items to elimination list

UK sustainability charity WRAP has published an updated list of plastic packaging items recommended...
Target becomes 'first major US retailer' to commission sustainable wine in paper bottles
Business

Target becomes 'first major US retailer' to commission sustainable wine in paper bottles

Target is the first major USA supermarket retailer to commission a range of sustainable wines in...