Amazon invests in 100% recyclable packaging

All delivery packaging Amazon uses across Europe is now fully recyclable. This includes boxes, bags and envelopes sold directly by the e-commerce platform as well as third-party partners.

Amazon says it’s ‘thrilled’ for customers to receive packages in flexible paper bags, cardboard envelopes and corrugated cardboard boxes. In the past year, the retailer has grown the number of products shipped without any additional packaging by more than 50% in Europe.

The online retailer points out that it uses science-based systems to determine the type and size of packaging needed. ‘Machine learning helps us determine which smaller products are suitable for flexible packaging, such as paper bags,’ Amazon explains. These are up to 90% lighter than similar-sized boxes.

Such advanced algorithms have reduced the use of cardboard boxes by over 35% since 2019. Additionally, this approach has prevented the use of roughly one billion single-use plastic delivery bags.

‘We’re excited that our European fulfilment network is now using recyclable packaging for customer orders,’ says Pat Lindner, VP of sustainable packaging at Amazon. ‘This is part of our long-term work to be a leader in sustainability. We’ll continue to invest in innovative technology, machine learning, and more sustainable materials to ensure packaging—whether used by us or other companies—is good for our customers, communities, and the planet.’