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R-Thinking: Innovating for a Circular Economy

Primary Packaging, Active, Smart Packaging, Sustainable Packaging, Eco-Sensitive Packaging, Recyclable Packaging

Achieving a circular economy, in which we use resources more economically and reuse them instead of basing value on constantly adding new resources, is a change that more and more people consider necessary to bring about a sustainable society for the future. In this regard, R-strategies are an important part of rethinking and innovating around resource use when developing new products.

Adopting a circular mindset
Human consumption has long been based on a linear approach. We create a product, use it and then throw it away. This mindset has kept things going at a rapid pace. But resources such as raw materials and energy have been used at a high rate, which doesn’t fit with today’s holistic approach to sustainability. To change this, we need to adopt a circular, rather than a linear, mindset. Systematically reducing resource losses through smarter use and manufacturing that enable the product, or at least its components and materials, to be used for longer or in other forms.

Less is more
The less resources and virgin raw materials that are needed for manufacturing, the more circular it will become. But a completely circular approach is neither possible nor desirable, as this would require huge resources to utilize all the constituent parts of the expended products. Nolato Magasin has previously written about the importance of taking a circular approach to designing products. It’s at the drawing board that a product’s sustainability performance is determined.

Holistic approach essential
A holistic approach that takes account of a product’s purpose is what’s needed to ensure the product is sustainable. Is it really needed? By far the most sustainable option is to not manufacture a product. Or should it have a different design? Can it be made so it’s easy to repair when it breaks? Can it be refurbished? Can it be used as something else when it has reached the end of its useful life? Or ground down and its material recycled? There are lots of options, but it’s also important to get the level right so it doesn’t end up being counterproductive.

Find the appropriate degree
R-strategies, which have existed for some years, help determine the level of circularity that might be appropriate when manufacturing a new product. The ‘R’ comes from ‘reuse’, ‘recycle’, etc. The strategies include 11 different actions ranked according to the level of circular economy that they contribute to. The lower the number, the higher the level of circularity. R0 to R2 are aimed at avoiding or reducing new raw materials in manufacturing, while R3 to ¤R7 are based on retaining resources within the system, thereby reducing the need for new raw materials. If it’s not possible to apply any of the methods in R0 to R7, the methods in R8 to R9 may at least generate a satisfactory positive environmental impact.

Combining multiple R-strategies
Despite the R-strategies’ hierarchical structure, the optimal sustainable strategy is always case-specific and should be based on a holistic, system-wide approach that often draws on a number of R-strategies. The order in which they are ranked provides an indication of what actions will have the greatest impact and the order in which they should be selected. The purpose of the R-strategies is to encourage everyone involved to start thinking innovatively (they should perhaps be called ‘R-thinking’) to more easily identify the basis for adapting a new product to a more circular economy.

See also

Nolato and Conscientious Business Practices

Nolato upholds a longstanding commitment to conscientious business practices. The company values of Professionalism, Organization, and Responsibility are ingrained in operations and form the cornerstone of sustainable development approaches. Aligned with the Global Compact and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, our sustainable development strategy is an essential component of our overarching strategy for profitable growth. Its focus is on addressing near-future challenges while also positioning us to meet future expectations and demands.

Nolato and Sustainable Development - 2023 Sustainability Report

Nolato has a long tradition of responsible business conduct. The shared values of being Professional, Well Organized and Responsible are reflected throughout our business and are central to our sustainable development strategy. Nolato's sustainable development strategy is a vital part of its overall strategy for profitable growth. It is based on the Global Compact and the UN Sustainable Development Goals and is focused on addressing current challenges while preparing for future expectations and requirements.

Nolato Sustainable Procurement Initiative

Together with suppliers, Nolato can significantly reduce its carbon footprint and enhance sustainability performance. Nolato is steadfast in its commitment to sustainability and fully aware of its critical importance for a healthier planet and society. Under the guidance of our CEO, Christer Wahlquist, the company is taking decisive steps towards the goal of net-zero emissions. This journey is grounded in the principles of the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi), ensuring efforts are both scientifically substantiated and impactful.

Cerbo Classic Mass Balance: Design for Environment

Early involvement in the design process allows for sustainability ideas to be evaluated. One of the cornerstones of a circular economy is designing with the ability to recycle a product and optimize the circulation of material for reuse. Today it is also possible to reduce the CO2 emission on existing product ranges, for instance, with the use of BIO-material or mass-balanced solutions. By using the mass balance model, the same quality standards are met, and it contributes to the environment.

Explore Nolato's Unrivaled Pharma Packaging Guide

Packaging designed to meet the requirements of both prescription and over-the-counter medicines, Noloto packaging protects vital pharmaceuticals and life-enhancing drugs in forms such as solids, ophthalmic, and creams in a safe but user-friendly manner. Look inside our high-quality pharmaceutical primary plastic packaging catalog with 3D configurators for select ranges. Nolato Packaging manufactures reliable child resistance (CRC) and tamper-evident (TE) closure technologies.

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  • Modified 04 Feb 2025
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