Packaging reuse - Reciclapac packaging

Abstract

Reciclapac was created with the objective of generating value to customers by reusing packaging and reducing packaging waste in the automotive sector. In phase I of the project, the technical and economic viability of the reuse of logistic packaging in the automotive sector was confirmed. Evaluations have been made in several companies, such as General Motors, ZF, CNH, Scania, etc. As a consequence of the research, a new packaging patent was generated, suitable for reverse logistics and numerous uses. The concepts of sustainability adopted by Reciclapac are (i) upcycling, and (ii) design for reuse. In Phase II, in process, with final in August 2018, it was proposed to improve and develop: 1.1) Reuse of packaging (upcycling - generation of new life cycles)In relation to the reuse, it was foreseen the development of recovery and remanufacturing processes; creation of quality control capabilities to ensure a safe and scalable process; packaging standardization of the various consumer areas in these companies, aiming at the deproliferation of models, with increased economies of scale and reuse. We had the opportunity to implement reuse of packaging at MWM Diesel Engines. It was a very difficult process because it was a cultural change, but at the end of a year we can say that the company was successful. The process is still ongoing, but it is clear to the entire company, from the employees to the board, the economical and environmental benefits of the new process. 1.2) Reciclapac Packaging Development of the new "Reciclapac packaging" system as an alternative to packaging suitable for reverse logistics and various uses. This package was born in Phase I, in a Research in the company CNH, to create a package that made it possible to send boxes to the dealers and return empty boxes for reuse, in an economic way, in addition to process reduction, with an opening time and closure of 30 seconds, without nails or screws. The packaging has undergone several design improvements. It was tested on MWM and CNH diesel engines and had good acceptance. The packaging was also shipped to CNH dealers, who gave a good return on the prototypes. Our biggest challenge right now is working on processes and improvements to reduce costs. The first pilot production of 50 units was in September 2017. Our plan in relation to packaging is to continue the improvement and to develop a Project of Marketing to launch the product in the market, in scale. (AU)