Amazon announces 100% recyclable delivery packaging across entire European network

Customers are now receiving orders in flexible paper bags, cardboard envelopes and corrugated cardboard boxes. In the past year, Amazon says it has also grown the number of products shipped without any additional Amazon packaging by more than 50% in Europe.

Amazon estimates that they have avoided using over 1 billion single-use plastic bags from its European distribution network since 2019.

Amazon are working to remove additional packaging where it is not necessary, they’re shipping products with just an address label added. If further packaging is required, then they aim to use appropriately sized packaging to reduce waste.

“We’re excited that our European fulfilment network is now using recyclable packaging for customer orders,” said Pat Lindner, VP of Mechatronics and Sustainable Packaging at Amazon.

Amazon has a machine that uses an algorithm to determine the type and size of packaging needed. Over the past 5 years, Amazon says that these algorithms have helped reduce the use of cardboard boxes by 35%.

Amazon are committed to reach net-zero carbon by 2040, part of this goal requires them to reach 100% renewable energy by 2025, with more than 9,000 electric vehicles in use already.

Amazon have made several announcements, such as trialling automated packaging machines, which aim to cut down on pack volume and weight. They’re also encouraging brands to deliver items in their original packaging, negating the need for extra packaging during delivery.