Amazon wants to use less plastic in its shipping packaging in North America. By 2025, just 27 per cent of parcels will contain single-use plastic packaging, down from 37 per cent in 2024 and 65 per cent in 2023. For retailers and producers using fulfilment services, packaging decisions increasingly affect shipping efficiency, material use, and environmental performance.
Amazon wants less plastic and more efficient packaging
A key part of Amazon's North America strategy is the use of automated packaging systems that create right-sized paper packaging based on the product that is being shipped. This reduces unnecessary packaging material and empty space in parcels. The company is also increasing the share of shipments that can be recycled through standard household recycling systems. This resets the industry’s focus on recyclability and resource efficiency. Globally, however, Amazon’s packaging progress remains limited: Only 11 per cent of parcels were sent without additional wrapping in 2025, even though 28 million products are now certified for relevant programmes.
Optimised packaging grows more important under the PPWR
The PPWR places greater emphasis on reducing packaging waste, improving recyclability, and minimising empty space. As a result, businesses are increasingly reviewing their packaging strategies to:
- Reduce material consumption
- Improve recyclability
- Eliminate unnecessary packaging
- Lower shipping and compliance costs
- Meet future PPWR requirements
What was once primarily a logistics issue is becoming a strategic business decision.
Packaging becomes a competitive factor
As sustainability requirements tighten, efficient packaging can help companies reduce costs while improving compliance and customer perception. The trend suggests that future success in e-commerce will depend not only on what companies ship, but also on how they ship it. Businesses that optimise packaging early may be better positioned to meet regulatory requirements and changing consumer expectations.
VERE e.V. is in contact with all relevant stakeholders and keeps its members informed of further developments via the “VERE Insider”.
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