Deposit system for reusable packaging? It's possible with the Made4Loop service from Interzero!
Deposit system for reusable packaging? It’s possible with the Made4Loop service from Interzero!
The introduction of the Act of April 14, 2023 amending the regulations on the management of certain waste and the product fee results in a significant restriction of the trade in single-use plastic products. This amendment is a consequence of the implementation of the European Union directive of June 5, 2019, referred to as the SUP directive.
From July 1, 2024 entrepreneurs selling drinks in disposable cups will have to provide their customers with alternative packaging that will be more environmentally friendly and help reduce the amount of plastic waste. That’s why Interzero is introducing a new service – Made 4 Loop.
Looping is a unique solution that will help you implement sustainable, reusable and ecological alternatives to disposable cups and food packaging in your company. The Made4Loop model created by Interzero involves the use of reusable cups and packaging that customers rent for a deposit and then return in a deposit system. In this way, the packaging remains in a closed loop and is reused dozens, if not hundreds of times.
Get hassle-free implementation of your legal obligations. Create with us an individual design of cups and boxes tailored to your company’s offer. Reduce your carbon footprint and waste management costs!
You can read more about our new service HERE
What is the future of waste management? Will we drown in a waste tsunami?
What is the future of waste management? Will we drown in a waste tsunami?
What is certain is that the future of waste management will be shaped by many factors, including technological changes, changes in consumer culture, regulatory provisions and increased environmental awareness.
A waste-free economy is not only a vision of the future, but above all an environmental protection concept based on innovative ecological and economic solutions. This philosophy is closely related to the idea of a circular economy. Its implementation requires transformation of the entire production process and expansion of the waste management system based on comprehensive education. It is necessary to take action in many areas, such as reducing the amount of waste generated, promoting conscious consumption and increasing the recovery and recycling of raw materials.
Required recycling rates are already increasing. Selected single-use plastic products are disappearing from the European market. According to the plan, recyclate will be obligatorily used in some packaging. All thanks to European regulations. This new circular economy architecture is still missing one important component, which is Extended Producer Responsibility.
How not to drown in the maze of new legal regulations prepared by Polish and EU specialists was discussed in the panel “Waste tsunami, how not to drown in packaging” , which took place on October 12 during the European Forum for New Ideas ( EFNI ). The panel included:
– Anna Grom , CEO, Interzero Polska and Interzero Circular Solutions Europe
– Dr. Katarzyna Baranska , head of the decarbonization team, partner at Osborne Clarke
– Joanna Leoniewska-Gogola, MBA , Deputy Director for Sustainable Development and Economics, Deloitte
– Piotr Romańczuk , Director of Environmental Protection, Maspex Group
– Robert Szyman , General Director, Polish Association of Plastics Processors
The European Forum for New Ideas is one of the largest conferences devoted to global trends, new ideas and the future of Europe. As Interzero, we try to constantly discuss with business representatives the challenges in the changing world and jointly shape the future that depends on us.
We would like to thank the organizers for the invitation and the panelists for the inspiring discussion. See you at EFNI 2023!
Recycling instead of wasting resources: hard evidence of the contribution to sustainable business
Recycling instead of wasting resources: hard evidence of the contribution to sustainable business
We publish the “Resources SAVED by recycling ” study for 2022, in which we prove that Interzero and our customers reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 1 million tons and primary resource consumption by 8.7 million tone.
The consequences of global warming are becoming clearer by the week, and policymakers, researchers and entrepreneurs are discussing the appropriate types of climate action. What can and should be done to achieve our climate goals? At the same time, how can we ensure a sustainable high standard of living and a successful economy in Germany and Europe? One answer to this question is the systematic recycling of materials. The circular economy has already become a key factor in mitigating climate change.
The work of Europe’s leading circular services provider, Interzero, clearly demonstrates this. As the study “Resources SAVED through recycling” in 2022 shows, published today. Interzero’s company and customers returned a total of 2.1 million tons of materials back into circulation. This prevented approximately 1 million tonnes of greenhouse gases. At the same time, approximately 8.7 million tons of primary resources were saved.
“Our study aims to show that recycling is both an effective and necessary instrument for cutting climate-damaging emissions, protecting valuable resources and therefore countering the overexploitation of our natural environment. We need the transformation into a real closed-loop economy to maintain the quality of life on our planet. Today, this is the most important collective task that we are facing.” said Sebastiaan Krol, CEO of Interzero Circular Solutions.
Since 2008, Interzero has used the scientific study “Resources SAVED by Recycling” to report on the overall positive impact of recycling on the environment. This comprehensive life cycle assessment report – developed by the Fraunhofer Institute for Environment, Security and Energy Technology UMSICHT – is based on a detailed comparison of primary production and recycling, including all required process steps. A standardized methodology enables accurate quantification of resource savings and greenhouse gas emissions.
“Now in its fifteenth year, this study makes the environmental benefits of recycling both tangible and understandable. Looking to the future, this will be increasingly important to raise awareness about climate action and the sustainable handling of our raw materials among businesses and consumers alike” – comments Dr. Markus Hiebel, head of the sustainability department at Fraunhofer UMSICHT.
Data from Fraunhofer UMSICHT also form an important part of resource conservation campaigns “One World. Zero Waste. Let’s #MoveTheDate”, which Interzero launched together with the Global Footprint Network (GFN). According to the latest calculations by GFN, global Ecological Debt Day in 2023 would have been 7 minutes and 16 seconds earlier if Interzero and its customers had not continued their recycling efforts.
Please read the full press release (in English) at the link HERE
And with the report on our research HERE
Join us in the packaging revolution. Create a deposit system with Interzero and PIOIRO
Join us in the packaging revolution. Create a deposit system with Interzero and PIOIRO
Interzero, together with the Polish Chamber of Recovery and Recycling of Packaging, invites all entrepreneurs covered by the provisions of the Act to jointly build a deposit system in Poland. We have extensive experience and know-how in the operation of deposit systems in EU countries (including the deposit system in Germany), the necessary knowledge and practice in the operation of the waste management system and ready-made IT solutions enabling efficient operation of the deposit system (including in terms of records and reporting), as well as the possibility of offering bottle dispensers with full service and support.
A broad point of view that takes into account the needs of the manufacturer, distributor and consumer allows us to ensure comprehensive implementation of statutory obligations and provide a solution that improves selective waste collection under the deposit system.
As part of the cooperation, Interzero will take over key tasks related to the construction and operation of the deposit system, and PIOIRO will act as an organization associating packaging producers and waste management entities. Thanks to this, we will be able to focus on providing comprehensive solutions that will meet new regulations and market expectations.
Discover the offer for beverage producers, retail chains and representative entities. More details on the website HERE and HERE .
The deposit system comes into force. Summary of the Interzero Environmental Conference
What was the focus of this year’s Interzero Environmental Conference?
Changes in business and the environment
The market situation in the environmental protection and related sectors is dynamic and subject to regulations, including a number of directives. Existing legal changes concern especially areas such as packaging reduction, waste prevention and the use of recyclates in packaging. Therefore, continuous education and expansion of knowledge in these areas are crucial for enterprises. Having up-to-date knowledge of legal regulations and other aspects related to ecology and sustainable development is an indispensable element of business management, both in the context of production, promotion and sales.
According to Monika Grom, vice-president of the management board of Interzero, the need to have knowledge about innovative approaches to waste management and exchange experiences with experts and stakeholders cannot be underestimated. Therefore, Interzero emphasizes the importance of providing practical tips, providing reliable knowledge and facilitating the implementation of necessary changes. An example of such activities is the recently organized Environmental Conference 2023. The deposit system is a challenge for all those who introduce beverages into the packaging loop, but at the same time it offers an excellent opportunity to transform the way waste is managed and use a closed loop model. As experts participating in the conference emphasize, we are ready to implement a deposit system
You should talk to entrepreneurs
The Environmental Conference has been held regularly for many years and this year’s tenth anniversary edition was a continuation of this series. The conference organizers create a platform that allows participants to exchange knowledge and discuss legal issues related to environmental protection. In the current edition, given the numerous legal changes and regulations that need to be assimilated in a short period of time, special emphasis has been placed on providing participants with clear knowledge and specific solutions.
Together with the Polish Chamber of Recovery and Recycling of Packaging (PIOIRO), we are preparing to support entrepreneurs in adapting to new legal regulations. More information can be found on the PIOIRO website . As Interzero, we are the only official distributor of Sielaff brand bottle dispensers and we are already testing them in the retail chain in Warsaw and Łódź to show entrepreneurs and consumers in advance that we are prepared for these changes – summed up Paweł Lesiak, vice-president of the management board of Interzero.
About the Environmental Conference
The Interzero Environmental Conference is an annual gathering of stakeholders and experts in the field of environmental protection. It is a two-day event full of inspiring lectures, during which participants have the opportunity to expand their knowledge about applicable legal regulations and other issues related to ecology and sustainable development. Participation in the conference also offers an opportunity to learn about innovative and proven solutions in the field of waste management and to exchange experiences with other event participants.
Please read the full summary at the link HERE
Deposit system - new obligations of entrepreneurs introducing packaged beverages and running commercial units resulting from changes to the provisions of the Act on packaging and packaging waste management
Take part in the training – Deposit system – new obligations of entrepreneurs introducing packaged drinks and running commercial units resulting from changes to the provisions of the Act on packaging and packaging waste management
We cordially invite you to the webinar entitled “Refund system – new obligations of entrepreneurs introducing packaged beverages and running commercial units resulting from changes to the provisions of the Act on packaging and packaging waste management”, which will be held on October 26, 2023 (Thursday).
The online training will be conducted by: Paweł Sosnowski, Management Board Representative for environmental regulations at Interzero.
The scope of the webinar:
- The scope of entrepreneurs subject to the obligations arising from the establishment of the deposit system,
- The scope of packaging covered by the deposit system,
- Levels of collection of packaging waste and packaging,
- Labeling of packages covered by a deposit,
- Deposit amount,
- Minimum requirements for created deposit systems,
- Representing Entity – entity responsible for creating the deposit system. Requirements for establishment of the representing entity and the scope of its activities,
- Permission to create a deposit system,
- Operators of commercial entities – the requirement to join the deposit system and the resulting obligations,
- Records and reporting,
- Product fee.
A detailed thematic scope and the registration page can be found at the link HERE
Registration for the webinar lasts until: October 26, 2023 at 8:00.
We invite you!
"Faction action, or the puzzle of a very round idea" - a report from our workshops in the Royal Łazienki Park
“Faction action, or the puzzle of a very round idea” – a report from our workshops in the Royal Łazienki Park
What does precompost and regranulate smell like? Where to throw away spices, medicines or a broken iron? How to repair the lid? What does the seedling symbol on the packaging mean? These and many other questions were answered during our workshops.
During our workshops, parents and children together solved 12 puzzles revolving around the idea of a circular world. Together they moved between specially prepared stations with individual tasks, matched various elements, practiced careful observation and verified their knowledge in the field of selective collection. Finally, we joined forces to discover the story of the circular economy. We have learned that garbage is not unnecessary waste, but important, often strategic raw materials that should circulate in the system and be used again and again to create new items.
Each participant of the “Faction Action, or the puzzle of a very round idea” workshop received a gift – our original educational game .
The workshops were conducted as part of the Re:generacja program, supporting the renewal of the Łazienki Królewskie ecosystem and implemented by UNEP/GRID Warsaw and Interzero Packaging Recovery Organization. This is one of the public educational campaigns, financed from funds donated to build ecological awareness in society by the company’s clients. We encourage you to familiarize yourself with other activities of the Ecological Education Team, such as Eco without edges , EkoPaka , or Punkt Zwrotny .
Want to know more? Contact us at kontakt@interzero.pl
Sustainable office space? It's possible with the Zero Waste Office service!
Sustainable office space? It’s possible with the Zero Waste Office service!
Are you a manager or owner of commercial real estate? You are a specialist for Environmental Protection, Green Officer or Sustainable Manager and you want to introduce a change in the office that will have a positive impact on the working environment and the natural environment?
You should get to know our Zero Waste Office service!
What is it about?
The Zero Waste Office provides comprehensive support that will allow you to create an ecological and environmentally friendly workplace. Our offer includes an audit during which we will thoroughly analyze the functioning and structure of your office. We will also review internal documentation and provide you with a specific report containing recommendations and ready-made solutions to help you move towards a more sustainable future . Additionally, we offer educational and communication activities aimed at your employees, as well as access to consultations with our experts to support you at every stage of the process.
By choosing the Zero Waste Office service, you will receive comprehensive support in the green transformation and in achieving environmental goals. We will adjust the scope of activities to your expectations, the nature of the work and the size of the company.
Details of the offer can be found at the link: https://biurozerowaste.pl/
A new initiative by Interzero and Mama Projekt - the Turning Point educational center in fashion and the fight against greenwashing
A new initiative by Interzero and Mama Projekt – the Turning Point educational center in fashion and the fight against greenwashing
We live fast, we produce fast, we consume fast. Fast fashion wins hearts and achieves high profits, regardless of the social and environmental consequences. Every year, 92 million tons of textile waste goes to landfills, and only 1% is recycled. At the same time, for young people, appearance and fashion are a means of expressing themselves and building their identity. How to find your way in a world where producers often pull the wool over our eyes with ecological slogans and countless marketing techniques bombard us with their messages? EkoCentrum Punkt Zwrotny comes to the rescue – the place where change begins.
About fast fashion at FSO
The main theme of the Turning Point is the impact of fast fashion and packaging on the natural environment. The topics and methods of conducting innovative educational activities have been tailored to the interests of young people. Thanks to an engaging narrative, learning through discovery and solving puzzles, teenagers gain practical knowledge of ecology.
– The opening of the ecological education center in the former FSO car factory is a symbol of the green transformation taking place around us. As the Interzero Group, we focus on our pro-environmental activities, primarily on limiting the waste of natural resources, closing the raw material cycle and waste management. Our ambition related to ecological education is to talk about civilization challenges in an accessible, engaging and interesting way. The Turning Point, of which we are a patron and partner, is an example of this. I am very glad that we could get involved in this initiative – says Monika Grom, vice-president of the Interzero Group in Poland.
Mysterious rooms
There are four themed rooms in the Turning Point. One of them was substantively developed by Interzero experts. After entering it, visitors receive a message from the future and a garbage sorting task. The main goal of this part of the story is to present the impact of proper waste segregation on recycling and closing the circulation of packaging and raw materials.
– At the Turning Point, we create fashion for ecology. We do this through activating teaching methods that have proven successful in previous projects implemented together with Mama Projekt, such as the Ekoeksperymentarium exhibition or online games. This time we are setting off into the near future, showing today the reasons why textiles will be covered by the selective waste collection system from 2025. We want to educate through experience and thus change behavior, stimulating reflection and responsible attitudes, which is why the slogan of the Turning Point is “You are the change” – says Katarzyna Kacz, manager of educational projects for children and youth at the Interzero Group.
In each of the four thematic rooms of the Turning Point, groups of students look for answers to questions related to the environmental consequences of the activities of the clothing industry. After completing all the tasks, they meet with the animator in a special dialogue zone, where they discuss the conclusions from this journey through the world of fashion and packaging.
– Reports claim that young people have heard about climate change, but do not have sufficient knowledge and tools to understand its consequences, which is why they often adopt a passive attitude towards this phenomenon. “If I have to die anyway, let it be in fashionable shoes,” one teenager told us during interviews. This was the impulse to create an alternative form of ecological education. Game play, cooperation, good graphics, multimedia and expert knowledge provided in an interactive form are the ingredients of the recipe for Turning Point. We have been designing innovative tools for ecological education for 10 years, and creating an interactive EcoCentrum was Mama Projekt’s biggest dream. Come by and see for yourself how it turned out – invites Małgosia Żmijska from the Mama Projekt collective.
EkoCentrum Punkt Zwrotny is located at ul. Jagiellońska 88, in the former FSO gate (currently FSO Park). Registration for free workshops is available via the website www.punktzwrotny.com . On weekends, it will host less waste workshops, inspiring meetings and clothes exchanges. It is also possible to rent the EkoCentrum space.
It’s time for the Turning Point! 🚀🌱 Welcome!
We are cleaning Poniatówka - Interzero at the finale of the World Cleanup Day campaign
We are cleaning Poniatówka – Interzero at the finale of the World Cleanup Day campaign
World Cleanup Day is a cyclical event that we have been celebrating globally since 2008. For five years, Let’s Do It World, the world’s largest pro-ecological social movement, has been responsible for its organization. The organization is accredited by the United Nations Program for… Environmental Protection (UNEP) and the United Nations Environmental Assembly (UNEA). As part of the event, citizens of 190 countries around the world unite and clean up their local neighborhoods for a better and cleaner future for the entire planet.
The Polish final of the campaign took place on September 23, co-organized by the Planet Heroes foundation. Interzero appeared at the event as a partner of the campaign – our employees not only supported the cleaning of Warsaw’s Poniatówka, but also prepared an educational field game about sorting waste. Additionally, the meeting participants were treated to our original memo game ‘Akcja-frakcja’, which will help them consolidate the acquired knowledge about which fractions particular waste should go to.
Let’s play and learn together how to segregate waste properly.