Pathways to Reusable Packaging: Good Practices and Lessons from Germany and Brazil

This publication explores how reusable packaging systems can be implemented and improved, with a focus on sharing experiences and lessons learned between Brazil and Germany. The study aims to support the development of effective, context-adapted reuse schemes by analyzing both countries’ landscapes, policies, and practical case studies, while recognizing the importance of local adaptation and global cooperation in advancing circular economy solutions.

What it covers

• Key concepts and system types of reusable packaging
• Analyses of the Brazilian and German contexts, including legal frameworks and case studies
• Cross-country insights and recommendations for various sectors and for both countries to improve their reusable packaging systems
• Opportunities for future collaboration

Key findings

Reusable packaging systems offer a promising pathway to reduce single-use packaging, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and support sustainable development. However, there is a significant difference in the maturity and regulatory support between Germany and Brazil. Germany benefits from a well-established reuse ecosystem, robust infrastructure, and strong policy frameworks at both national and EU levels. In contrast, Brazil, despite having established initiatives in sectors like beverages and cosmetics, has a less diverse scenario, and its legislation has historically concentrated more on solid waste management rather than specific policies that prioritize prevention and reuse before packaging is discarded. The study also highlights the crucial role of including waste pickers, designing packaging for durability and repeated use, promoting collaboration between government, industry, and civil society, and both local adaptation and international cooperation.