REBOCOLLECT Working Group: Design and optimization of a collective model for the reuse of glass bottles at a national level

This result offers a viable, collective model for the reuse of glass wine bottles in the HORECA channel nationwide. It clearly defines how a shared pool of standard bottles works, including logistics, the optimal location of washing facilities, and the minimum volumes required for the system to be profitable. For wineries, especially SMEs, the model reduces individual investments, simplifies container management, and maintains food safety and quality requirements. By sharing infrastructure and transport, costs are reduced in the medium term, and progress is made toward models aligned with future regulations. For the hospitality sector, the system allows participation in reuse without complex changes to daily operations. Professionals can use this result as a practical guide to assess whether their region and business can be integrated into a collective reuse system.

This study analyzes how a collective bottle reuse system can coexist in a complementary way with the existing glass recycling system. It identifies the conditions under which reuse and recycling reinforce each other, avoiding interference in existing flows. For wineries and the HORECA sector, it provides clarity on how to reduce packaging emissions and costs without jeopardizing existing waste management systems. Practical recommendations are offered to maximize reuse cycles and ensure that bottles are properly recycled at the end of their useful life. The value for professionals lies in having clear criteria to move towards reuse progressively and safely, leveraging existing recycling investments and reducing the overall environmental impact of packaging.

This result optimizes the reuse model, making it more efficient, flexible, and applicable in real-world conditions. It includes improved bottle traceability, analysis of acceptance in the hospitality sector, and exploration of synergies with other sectors, such as spirits. For wineries and HORECA establishments, it provides a more reliable system with greater control over reuse cycles, hygiene, and logistics. Traceability allows for tracking the use of each bottle and improving operational management. Synergies with other sectors increase volumes and reduce unit costs. The practical value lies in having a more robust and scalable model that facilitates the adoption of reuse without increasing the operational burden and improves the business's competitiveness and sustainable image.

This communication strategy ensures that the reuse model and its benefits are clearly conveyed to wineries, the hospitality industry, and other key stakeholders. Through industry channels, events, and digital media, the system's operation and the advantages it offers in terms of cost, operations, and sustainability are explained. For professionals, this visibility reduces uncertainty, builds trust, and facilitates decision-making. Furthermore, it highlights the business opportunities associated with sustainability, such as improved brand image and anticipation of future regulatory requirements. End users can leverage this information to communicate the value of reuse to clients, suppliers, and internal teams.

This outcome improves coordination and information flow among all stakeholders involved in the reuse model. Clear internal communication tools facilitate the sharing of progress, decisions, and practical lessons learned. For professionals, this translates into better coordination between wineries, logistics operators, and the hospitality sector, simplifying system implementation. Fluid communication reduces operational errors, accelerates problem-solving, and enables the replication of best practices across different regions. The added value lies in having a well-organized network that supports professionals in adopting and scaling the reuse model.

This outcome ensures the effective transfer of the knowledge generated to the wine, hospitality, and related sectors. The results and recommendations are disseminated through workshops, industry events, and professional networks, with a practical approach based on real-world experiences. For professionals, this provides access to proven solutions and clear guidance for implementing reuse efficiently. These actions reduce learning costs, facilitate collaboration among stakeholders, and improve decision-making. The ultimate value is strengthening business competitiveness and environmental performance through validated reuse practices.