About the Project
Organizational Unit
XXX
Management
Prof. Dr. Marc Dressler
Prof. Dr. Dominik Durner
Project Number
XXX
Research Area
XXX
Grant Program
- European Innovation Partnership on “Agricultural Productivity and Sustainability” (EIP-Agri) — Part of the Baden-Württemberg Rural Areas Action and Development Plan 2014–2022 (MEPL III)
- State of Baden-Württemberg
- European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD)
Category
XXX
Duration
October 2022 – December 2024
Background
Why should the wine industry focus on reusable packaging?
- Rising producer prices for glass
- Consumers’ sustainability priorities
- Wine’s carbon footprint -> The wine bottle is the main cause of the high carbon footprint
In light of global sustainability efforts, the wine industry faces the challenge of developing innovative solutions to reduce its environmental footprint. In this endeavor, circular systems and reusable solutions are coming to the forefront as promising tools for minimizing resource consumption.
Amid the ongoing discussion about sustainability in the wine industry, the EIP-Agri project “Wein-Mehrweg” is taking center stage: In close cooperation with the Baden-Württemberg Cooperative Association (BWGV), the project aims to design and establish a supraregional and practical reusable system for 0.75-liter wine bottles. The targeted introduction of a reusable system is intended to promote the reuse of glass bottles and make a significant contribution to conserving resources and reducing the carbon footprint of wine production.
The overarching goal is to develop innovative solutions for the multifaceted challenges of the reusable bottle initiative.
The project focuses on creating a well-designed reusable system that not only offers environmental benefits but is also closely integrated with the retail sector and consumer behavior. Together, we are striving for a solution that is not only environmentally sound but also economically viable. The collaboration across the value chain—through experiments and tests involving various conceptual approaches and implementation strategies—forms a strong knowledge network that enables direct feedback for practice-oriented research.
Work Plan
- Development and formulation of technical specifications for wine bottles, labels, and closures, including bottle carrier systems
- From a technical and consumer perspective, which bottles are suitable for the returnable system?
- Aligning logistics processes with the workflows of the wine value chain
- What reusable bottle carrier systems are needed?
Analysis of transportation distances and the sustainability of the planned system
Establishment of a reusable system
Challenges
Wine production faces challenges ranging from environmental and economic to social issues. Experience shows that, despite promising environmental benefits, the introduction of returnable bottle systems faces significant implementation hurdles.
The introduction of a reusable system for wine bottles is a significant step toward greater sustainability and environmental protection in the wine industry. This transformation requires a carefully planned change management process to ensure that all stakeholders—from winemakers and distributors to end consumers—can successfully navigate the transition.
Goals of the Initiative
- Development of a reusable system for 0.75-liter wine bottles
- Establishment of a knowledge hub for the entire industry
- There is a strong focus on sustainability and practicality
- Close involvement of retailers and consumers (market research)
- Other new types of wine packaging (e.g., kegs) are included
- Demonstrable reduction in the carbon footprint of a bottle of wine
- Promotion of reusable systems in the wine industry
Will the reusable wine bottle make a comeback?
Research Film
31 OPG members and a broader group of interested individuals
The Operational Group
The operational group of the EIP-Agri “Wein-Mehrweg” project consists of a total of 31 members. Participants include 19 renowned winegrowers’ cooperatives, national beverage industry associations, several retail partners, glass manufacturers, bottle-washing facilities, and the Wine Campus Neustadt as a research partner. Through targeted cooperation across regional borders, a comprehensive approach is being pursued that serves as the foundation for successful implementation.
Associations
- Baden-Württemberg Cooperative Association e.V.
- Fruit Juice Industry Association e.V.
- Württemberg Winegrowers’ Association e.V.
- Baden Winegrowers’ Association e.V.
- Pro Mehrweg e.V.
Retail Companies
- EDEKA Southwest
- Globus
Participating Cooperatives and Companies – In Practice
- Deutscher Mineralbrunnen eG
- A glass manufacturer
- A bottle trading cooperative
- A bottle-washing company
- 19 winemakers’ and vineyard growers’ cooperatives
News
Wine Meets Digital Innovation: Collaboration Between Wine Campus Neustadt and Mainz University of Applied Sciences
In cooperation with Mainz University of Applied Sciences and students majoring in digital studies, a film has been produced that comprehensively explores the topic of reusable wine bottles. The project successfully combines research, teaching, and practical experience in the wine industry. From interactive storytelling formats and virtual reality experiences to innovative examples of reusable bottles and insights from industry experts, you’ll gain a brief insight into this relevant research topic.
contact
Katharina Kleiner
Julian Döbler