INTERPOOL

Glass is very suitable for washing, refilling and reusing. Therefore, implementing reuse systems can increase the sustainability of these types of packaging compared to single-use. But, while the EU’s new packaging regulations (PPWR) are driving a shift toward a circular economy, the potential of glass reuse is still trapped between national borders. Interpool is here to unlock this potential: through our cross-border project, we are ready to break bottlenecks rather than bottles.

Our vision: a reuse system without borders

Currently, reuse systems follow different logics per country or industry. We are uniting frontrunners from the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Germany to harmonise these solutions.

Together with actors across the product’s lifecycle, we will work towards enabling a pooling system in which packaging is jointly circulated, collected, cleaned, and reused, to make glass reuse more cost-effective and environmentally friendly. This shared infrastructure can reduce complexity, lower waste management costs, and increase scale across the entire region.

Over the coming years, we will:

🗺️ Map existing systems in the Netherlands, Belgium, France and Germany
⚙️ Identify technical, logistical and policy bottlenecks
🔎 Determine how to make systems work across borders
💬 Learn from real-world experiences of retailers, fillers and innovators
🎯 Deliver a shared action plan for reusable glass packaging across Europe

A historic opportunity

Reusable glass is one of the most promising solutions to reach Europe’s climate ambitions, but it only works if we collaborate. Interpool offers a unique opportunity to prevent fragmentation and accelerate an industry-wide transition to reuse.

Shared action for shared benefit

From washing facilities and glass providers to supermarkets, food and beverage producers, and consumers - the entire value chain can benefit from a more accessible and effective reuse ecosystem.

Join us as we lay the foundation for a cohesive, EU-wide reusable glass packaging network!