Colloquia

Summary

Packaging is often produced, used once, and then discarded, generating large volumes of waste. A circular economy seeks to reduce this waste by emphasising reuse and recycling. This thesis, therefore, focuses on the development of a reusable product carrier for Sunrise Medical, aiming to provide a sustainable, efficient, and regulation-compliant packaging solution for large mobility devices such as wheelchairs, scooters, and power chairs.

The project is driven by two main objectives: enhancing pallet fill efficiency and preparing for the upcoming European Union Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). Improving pallet fill efficiency reduces transport costs and environmental impact by maximising container space, resulting in fewer shipments, lower fuel consumption, and reduced emissions. The Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, which enters into force on 12 February 2025 with relevant requirements applicable from 1 January 2030, introduces strict sustainability criteria for all packaging on the European market with a focus on reusability. Since the product carrier qualifies as transport packaging, the regulation will serve as a key guideline for its design and implementation.

The developed product carrier is designed for multiple use cycles and is fully adjustable, allowing it to accommodate a wide range of product sizes and weights while ensuring high pallet and container fill efficiency. In addition to the design, an implementation framework has been developed to support Sunrise Medical and other companies in adopting the carrier and integrating it into closed- or open-loop pooling systems.