Circularity
Single-Use Packaging and Its Challenges
Single-use packaging, such as cardboard boxes, dominates the e-commerce and logistics industries but poses significant ecological and economic problems. According to a study by the German Environment Agency, over 19.7 million tons of packaging waste were generated in Germany alone in 2021, with a large share coming from single-use cardboard. The production of cardboard is particularly resource-intensive: up to 50 liters of water are required for just one kilogram of paper – an amount disproportionately high compared to reusable materials such as plastic. Moreover, the recycling process for cardboard involves considerable energy and resource consumption, and many materials cannot be reused due to contamination.
Single-use packaging relies on a linear economic approach focused on consumption and subsequent disposal. This approach is neither sustainable nor future-proof, as it wastes valuable resources and significantly contributes to environmental pollution. The limited success of cardboard recycling further highlights why single-use packaging is not a viable solution for an eco-friendly future.
“Single-use is a thing of the past – Ocean Package focuses on reusable packaging that reduces waste and conserves resources. Together, we are building a sustainable future for shipping and logistics.”
Reusable Packaging: The Sustainable Alternative
In contrast, the circular economy emphasizes the reuse of resources, making reusable packaging a cornerstone of this model. Reusable plastic packaging, such as those developed by Ocean Package, can be used up to 20 times before being recycled. This drastically reduces the demand for single-use materials and lowers the ecological footprint.
Reusable packaging in the shipping sector offers both ecological and practical advantages in logistics. Its robust design provides better protection for products, while its reusability significantly reduces waste. Studies show that switching from cardboard to reusable systems can reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 60%. Reusable shipping packaging is particularly effective in closed-loop systems, such as those supported by Ocean Package. These systems ensure efficient return and sustainable recycling of packaging, breaking the linear waste stream.
Reuse, Reduce & Recycle
Up to 80 % less CO2
Up to 95 % less packaging waste
A 100 % guaranteed recycling rate
Ocean Package: A Pioneer in Sustainable Packaging Solutions
Ocean Package is actively driving this shift with innovative reusable solutions for the shipping sector. Our packaging is made from a durable and fully recyclable monomaterial – polypropylene – which, thanks to its modular design, can be stacked and transported efficiently. Supported by a digital platform, Ocean Package ensures seamless tracking of every reusable package. Customers can monitor in real time how many cycles their reusable packaging has completed, optimizing their logistics processes. At the same time, the platform ensures that every package is properly recycled at the end of its lifecycle, avoiding additional waste.
A Closed Loop for Maximum Sustainability
At the end of their lifecycle, Ocean Package ensures the complete recycling of each package. The materials are repurposed to manufacture new reusable packaging, creating a closed material loop. This recycling process keeps valuable resources in the economic cycle and minimizes waste. Innovative recycling technologies ensure that our packaging can be reintegrated into production, delivering both ecological and economic benefits.
This approach not only reduces waste but also lowers costs for companies that adopt sustainable logistics solutions. By combining innovative design, digital transparency, and a closed-loop system, Ocean Package is setting new standards for a sustainable packaging industry. Recycling remains a central pillar in realizing the vision of a fully circular economy.
Ocean Package and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation
Ocean Package is a proud member of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, a globally leading organization dedicated to advancing the circular economy. Its mission is to accelerate the transition from a linear to a circular economy and to support businesses in developing innovative, resource-efficient solutions.
The Ellen MacArthur Foundation is built on three core principles:
- Eliminating waste and pollution.
- Reusing materials and products.
- Regenerating natural systems.
These principles are the foundation of a sustainable economy.
Ocean Package shares these values and is actively working to implement the principles of the circular economy in the packaging industry. Our reusable packaging minimizes waste, optimizes resource utilization, and significantly reduces CO₂ emissions. Through our membership in the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, we strengthen our commitment to sustainable innovations and benefit from the knowledge and network of leading companies and organizations driving the global circular economy.
This partnership underscores our mission not only to develop sustainable solutions for the packaging industry but also to actively contribute to a more environmentally friendly future.