Amazon Packs Less, Delivers More Green
Amazon.com, Inc.
Amazon reaffirmed its commitment to improving packaging practices, benefitting both customers and the environment.
The e-commerce giant recently showcased its advancements in packaging innovation and sustainability, outlining strategic measures to minimise unnecessary packaging.
As part of the 'Ships in Product Packaging' programme, Amazon successfully shipped 11% of orders without additional packaging in 2022. This initiative employs machine learning to identify products suitable for safe shipping without extra packaging, with collaboration with selling partners for innovative packaging solutions.
Since 2021, the number of products shipped without additional packaging has increased by more than 50% in Japan and more than tripled in Australia. In Europe, Amazon claims to have grown this number by more than 50% in 2022.
Vendors on the platform are encouraged to reduce packaging, with the possibility of receiving rewards. Despite potential branding visibility loss due to reduced packaging, Amazon believes this approach will enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.
To address situations where additional packaging is necessary, Amazon focuses on paper-based solutions. In Europe, the company replaced single-use plastic delivery bags with recyclable paper and cardboard packaging, eliminating over a billion single-use plastic bags. In the US, automated fulfillment centres are transitioning from plastic to weather-resistant paper, while in India, Amazon has eliminated single-use thin-film plastic packaging.
Stressing the importance of using correctly sized packaging, Amazon prioritises minimal protective packaging through machine learning algorithms. Over the past five years, these algorithms have reportedly reduced corrugated box usage by more than 35% in North America and Europe. Using appropriately sized cardboard boxes has resulted in a 7% to 10% annual reduction in cardboard waste in North America.
Looking ahead, Amazon remains firm in its commitment to reducing packaging and increasing recyclable materials. The company pledges to provide regular updates to customers, ensuring a sustainable and environmentally responsible approach to order shipments.
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Source: Packaging Gateway
