Multi-value through multi-use packaging!

Since 1996, the Stiftung Initiative Mehrweg has been committed to the promotion of reusable systems to conserve resources and protect the environment. This is a worthwhile goal, which we at POLYTEC also wish to actively support with our reusable packaging solutions. Gerhard Augeneder, Director Product Lines at POLYTEC, has therefore recently contributed his expertise from the plastics industry to the foundation as an honorary board member. To mark the occasion, we met Gerhard Augeneder for an interview.

1. What motivated you to get involved in the Stiftung Initiative Mehrweg?
In my role at POLYTEC, I have long been concerned with the challenge of converting the enormous mountains of waste from disposable packaging into functioning reusable systems. Experience shows that in many areas, only around 50 per cent of recyclable packaging is actually used in new products. A large proportion is incinerated or cannot be recycled at all. This realisation and the fact that our expertise in this product segment creates real added value are a strong driving force for me.

2.Which synergies do you see between the foundation's objectives and POLYTEC's portfolio strategy?
At POLYTEC, we are strategically involved in two rapidly growing sustainability topics: the energy sector and reusable packaging. In this respect, we have the same interest and the same convictions.
 

3. Which of the foundation's projects have you already been involved in?
One concrete example is the project of the Euro Plant Tray Organisation, which was launched in 2022 by several players in the plant industry. The aim of this initiative is to create a standardised European solution for reusable plant trays and thus reduce the use of single-use plastic in plant logistics. The leverage for sustainability is huge, as at least 40,000 tonnes of plastic waste can be avoided across Europe by switching to reusable trays. The Stiftung Initiative Mehrweg is actively supporting this project by providing the Euro Plant Tray Organisation with valuable expertise and helping to establish a strong network. We at POLYTEC were able to successfully demonstrate our development and production expertise both in the concept competition and in the test series. Our plant trays are not only designed for a reusable system, but also for a cradle-to-cradle system in order to realise a real cycle even after use.
 

In order to sustainably increase the proportion of reusable packaging in all economic sectors, the Stiftung Initiative Mehrweg is reaching out in many directions. On the one hand, it cooperates with reusable-orientated companies such as POLYTEC, but also with environmental and trade associations. It also works with renowned research institutes such as the Fraunhofer Institute in order to obtain scientific studies and the latest data and findings on reusable systems.

Reusable instead of disposable: examples of POLYTEC product solutions

Reusable containers for the food trade with Cradle to Cradle certification in silver

Reusable plant trays with a service life of at least 10 years