DENMARK – Tomra is currently testing a new DRS system in Aarhus, Denmark, with the aim of facilitating a transition from disposable to reusable takeaway packaging.
The initiative operates as an open system, allowing packaging from various providers to be returned 24/7 to a shared infrastructure of automated collection points throughout the city.
Tomra emphasizes that its system offers unique convenience for businesses providing takeaway food and beverages, such as cafes and fast-food restaurants, as well as for consumers.
Nicolaj Bang, Alderman for Technical Services and Environment in Aarhus Municipality, expresses the city’s commitment to becoming a greener and more sustainable community.
He notes, “Aarhus wants to be a greener and more sustainable city and one which has the courage to test new solutions.”
Aarhus is initiating its own deposit system for to-go cups, with significant interest already shown by many food establishments in the city.
High return rates for packaging are incentivized through monetary rewards. In the Aarhus pilot, this involves a deposit payment at the time of purchasing takeaway food or drinks, with a full reimbursement upon returning the packaging.
Tove Andersen, President and CEO of Tomra, considers this project crucial for the company’s ambitious plans to utilize systemic knowledge and technological expertise for innovative solutions benefiting businesses, consumers, and society.
The initial phase of the system focuses on hot and cold drink containers, including takeaway coffee cups.
Customers receive the deposit reimbursement directly on their card or account by tapping a contactless payment credential to activate the dedicated Tomra collection point. The payment system is facilitated through collaborations with Visa, MasterCard, and Shift4.
Tomra not only provides automated collection machines for reusable takeaway packaging but also handles emptying the machines and transporting the packaging to its industrial sanitation facility in Aarhus.
Sanitized cups undergo quality inspection and are ready to return to the system when retailers order new supplies through an online webshop.
Geir Sæther, Senior Vice President and Head of Tomra Reuse, believes that reusable takeaway packaging is crucial for a circular approach to waste management.
Tomra aims to offer innovative and efficient solutions through a shared infrastructure with automated collection points.
The company ensures that businesses are relieved from the responsibility of taking back and sanitizing packaging, addressing a common challenge in alternative reuse-based systems.
After the initial phase focusing on drink beverage cups, the plan is to expand the system to cover a broader range of materials and types of takeaway packaging.
This comprehensive and transparent system is intended for use by all within the city, contributing to optimal resource utilization and preventing litter in urban environments.
Besides environmental benefits and sustainability goals, the system for reusable takeaway packaging is expected to generate local job opportunities in the community, according to Tomra.
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