Over the next 30 months, the Reusify project will utilize its €2 million budget—primarily funded by Business Finland—to develop scalable and efficient reusable packaging systems. The initiative seeks to reduce reliance on fossil-fuel-based packaging materials and curb packaging waste, supporting the transition from a linear economy to a circular economy.
Addressing the Growing Packaging Waste Challenge
With rising consumption of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) and takeaway food, the demand for single-use packaging has surged, exacerbating global waste management issues. Eurostat data shows that between 2009 and 2020, packaging waste in the EU increased by 20%, reaching 80 million tonnes, or 178 kg per EU citizen. Without significant intervention, packaging waste is projected to rise by another 19% by 2030.
Finland’s Packaging Industry Poised for Leadership
As reusable packaging gains traction, Finland’s established expertise in the packaging sector positions it to lead the development of circular packaging solutions. The technologies and systems created through the Reusify project are expected to be commercialized within the next decade, with potential export revenues exceeding €1.45 billion.
A Collaborative Ecosystem for Innovation
The Reusify initiative brings together key stakeholders across the reusable packaging value chain—from material production to recirculation. With 21 company partners, the University of Vaasa, and the VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, the project will drive multidisciplinary research to develop reuse governance frameworks, optimize system design for tracing and logistics, test packaging solutions, ensure safety compliance, and assess sustainability trade-offs. VTT is leading the overall project coordination.
Beyond Packaging: Creating New Industry Competencies
Reusify is not just about advancing reusable packaging—it aims to establish new expertise and export potential for Finnish industries. The project encompasses a wide range of sectors, including raw materials, packaging production, tracking technologies, machinery, logistics, cleaning, filling, labeling, and software solutions. By fostering innovation and collaboration, Reusify is set to drive meaningful progress toward a more sustainable and circular packaging economy.
