We’re proud to have partnered with Uber Eats on a new research report, ‘Delivering a More Sustainable Takeaway Packaging System’, which outlines actionable policy, infrastructure, and financial solutions that key stakeholders can adopt to facilitate the transition to more sustainable packaging in the last-mile delivery sector. Although takeaway packaging represents only about 4% to 9% of the global packaging market, its environmental and public health impact is significant.
The report highlights five essential actions to optimize single-use packaging systems in the context of third-party delivery, which policymakers, merchants and platforms should all consider:
- Reduce Unnecessary Packaging: Implement government regulations to limit harmful materials and excess packaging.
- Sustainable Material Production: Encourage producers and distributors to create packaging from sustainable materials through financial incentives.
- Feasibility for Restaurants: Leverage Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies to make sustainable options more accessible and affordable for restaurants.
- Consumer Education: Inform consumers and restaurants about different types of sustainable packaging and proper disposal methods.
- End-of-Life Pathways: Establish funding for recycling and composting facilities to ensure effective reprocessing of used packaging.
