FAQ on Reusable Packaging
Here, we’ve compiled the questions we’re frequently asked about reusable packaging. If you still have questions that aren’t answered here, please don’t hesitate to send us a message at hello@rhinopaq.com. We’ll get back to you with answers as soon as possible.
General Questions
What is the carbon footprint of reusable packaging?
The data situation is very complex due to numerous factors. What percentage of each package consists of recycled waste paper? Do the trees come from local forests or from illegal logging? Where was the cardboard manufactured? What percentage of the cardboard eventually re-enters the recycling cycle? And so on.
We therefore calculate using uniform factors from the “CO2-Faktoren” [CO₂ Factors] information sheet published by the Federal Funding Program for Energy and Resource Efficiency in the Economy: 0.62 kg of CO₂ equivalents per kilogram of cardboard and 1.88 kg per kilogram of polypropylene, in each case for manufacturing only.Show Note 1Values according to the information sheet “CO2-Faktoren” [CO₂ Factors], Version 3.4, from the Federal Funding Program for Energy and Resource Efficiency in the Economy (on behalf of the BMWE), Table 4, p. 16: Cardboard 0.62 and polypropylene (PP) 1.88 metric tons of CO₂ equivalents per metric ton, for manufacturing only.Open the information sheet (PDF) A 150-gram cardboard box thus generates around 93 grams, while a reusable box of the same weight generates 282 grams. We’re using a conservative estimate of just 10 usage cycles and 36 grams of CO₂ per return shipment. This results in savings of around 31%.Show Note 2Our own calculation: cardboard box and reusable box, 150 g each; production emits 0.62 and 1.88 kg CO₂e per kg, respectively; 10 uses; 36 g CO₂ per return. Single-use: 10 × 93 g = 0.93 kg CO₂e. Reusable: 282 g + 10 × 36 g = 0.64 kg CO₂e. Result: 31% less.View the calculation
How is the reusable packaging returned?
With our pay-per-use package, you pay only for the one-time use of the reusable packaging. When you deposit the folded packaging into our collection containers, it is returned to rhinopaq. We cover the return shipping costs and the processing of the packaging. If the packaging is returned to you, you can, of course, reuse it. The costs for multiple uses will be agreed upon with us in advance.
How many sizes does rhinopaq offer?
We currently offer 10 different standard sizes, ranging from 18 x 15 x 9 cm to 60 x 40 x 30 cm. We regularly expand our standard product line. For larger order quantities, we can also accommodate your custom size requirements. Feel free to contact us for details at hello@rhinopaq.com.
What material is the reusable packaging made of?
To achieve a high number of shipping cycles and thereby significantly increase CO2 savings compared to standard single-use packaging, we need a durable material that does not degrade. That is why we use polypropylene containing 40 to 60% recycled content for our reusable packaging.
Why is reusable packaging dark in color?
Color plays an important role in the recycling process for our reusable packaging. We chose a dark gray because recycled material works best in dark shades. This allows us to achieve a recycled content of 40 to 60%; that wouldn’t be possible with colored packaging. We take back retired boxes, shred them, and send them for recycling. In addition, the dark packaging still looks great even after multiple uses.