RCTP Pushes for Reusable Transport Packaging in EU Circular Economy Act
The Roundtable for Reusable Containers, Trays and Pallets (RCTP) has urged European policymakers to place reusable transport packaging (RTP) at the center of the European Commission’s upcoming Circular Economy Act, describing it as a vital component of resilient and sustainable supply chains.
To support its position, RCTP has released a new policy paper and launched its “Europe Deserves Less” campaign. The organization argues that while current policy discussions largely focus on recycling, waste management, and secondary raw materials, reusable packaging systems already provide significant economic, environmental, and operational benefits across sectors such as manufacturing, automotive, food, retail, and healthcare.
RCTP is calling for reuse-focused policies that align with the EU waste hierarchy. Its recommendations include harmonizing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes across member states, rewarding waste prevention through eco-modulation measures, and exempting reusable packaging products from EPR fees.
The group also encourages the European Commission to leverage public procurement policies to promote reusable solutions, support the expansion of circular business models, and establish certification requirements for RTP products imported from non-EFTA countries to ensure fair competition and maintain circular economy standards.
According to studies cited by RCTP from the Fraunhofer Institute, broader adoption of reusable transport packaging in the fruit and vegetable sector could prevent product losses valued at nearly €100 million annually. Additional research suggests RTP products can remain in service for up to 15 years while reducing greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 90% compared to single-use alternatives, alongside lower energy and water consumption throughout their lifecycle.
The discussion comes as the European Commission recently exempted pallet wrappings and straps from the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation’s 100% reuse targets, citing concerns over excessive costs and potential supply chain disruptions. However, reuse targets remain applicable to packaging used for transport within the same company, between partner companies, or within the same EU member state.
Meanwhile, packaging companies Tosca and Cabka have introduced the Tosca CP 1208, a circular pallet manufactured from 100% recycled plastic. Designed for automated handling systems, the pallet incorporates drainage features to reduce moisture retention while supporting Europe’s growing transition toward reusable and circular packaging solutions.
