Closing the Loop on Packaging (Part 1): The Power of Reuse & Refill in Drinks
In our previous article, we set the stage for our "Closing the Loop" series, defining the circular economy and highlighting its deep relevance – and historical roots – within the drinks industry. We established that moving beyond the wasteful 'take-make-use-lose' model is not just an environmental imperative but increasingly a regulatory and commercial necessity, driven by factors like upcoming Deposit Return Schemes (DRS) and EU regulations (PPWR).
For this article let’s turn to the most tangible aspect for many drinks businesses: packaging. While designing for recyclability is important (which we'll cover in Part 2), the principles of circularity urge us to prioritise strategies that keep materials in use at their highest value for longer. This means putting Reuse and Refill models centre stage.
Closing the Loop: Why the 'New' Circular Economy is a Return to Smarter Systems for Drinks
Over the past month, we've focused heavily on the implications of the DMCC Act and the critical need for transparent, substantiated environmental claims. Getting communication right is vital, but it must be underpinned by genuine action and sustainable operational models. This leads us naturally to our next topic, a theme I believe is fundamental to the future resilience and responsibility of the drinks sector: The Circular Economy.
We often talk about the circular economy as a 'new' model, a necessary shift away from the dominant linear system of take resources, make products, use them, and the lose the resources. This 'take-make-use-lose' approach, born largely from post-industrial revolution abundance and the rise of consumer convenience culture, is inherently wasteful and unsustainable. The drinks industry, reliant on agriculture, water, energy, and significant packaging volumes, is deeply embedded within it.
But calling the circular economy 'new' overlooks a crucial historical truth and ignores successful systems operating right now.
The Return of Deposit Return Schemes
After years of debate, the UK’s Deposit Return Scheme (commonly referred to as DRS) has passed through Parliament, with implementation scheduled for October 2027.
What will be included? How much will it cost? And, crucially, how can brands prepare for the changes while keeping costs under control? We thought it would be helpful to break down the details, highlight the challenges, and explore the opportunities the DRS presents for drinks brands.