Measuring Progress in Packaging Waste Prevention: Trends and Gaps in Communicated Indicators from National Policy and the Food Retail Sector

Abstract Effective packaging waste prevention requires appropriate indicators to monitor progress and design measures. This paper addresses the lack of research and standardization of packaging waste prevention indicators at the national and company levels. A two-part methodology is employed. First, a framework for inventorying indicators is established; then, the framework is applied to national waste prevention programs of European Environment Agency member and cooperating countries, as well as to published reports and communications of the German food retail sector. The analysis reveals that 23 out of 30 countries and 17 out of 32 companies use and communicate packaging waste prevention indicators. However, there are gaps in indicators addressing qualitative prevention as well as regulatory and economic instruments at the national level. At the company level, recycled content and the reduction of packaging are specifically addressed. The term “reduction” may involve various approaches, including replacing materials such as plastic with alternatives or simply reducing usage. Specific monitoring of secondary and transport packaging is lacking in both sectors. In terms of plastics, indicators lack consistency and clarity, potentially facilitating greenwashing at the corporate level. Monitoring and reporting practices vary, and few indicators have specific targets and monitoring schemes. Recommendations for improvement include establishing a common understanding of waste prevention, adopting a holistic approach to monitoring various packaging materials, enhancing indicator measurability, and harmonizing indicators through categorization and inventory frameworks. These improvements are crucial for effectively monitoring and addressing packaging waste prevention at both the national and industry levels.