In March 1998, the PMA Task Force recommended a standard footprint for returnables which it believes will help these container systems be more efficient in North America. While the use of PPBs for shipping virgin or recycled plastic resin pellets to converters is an effective means of resource conservation, current utilization is very limited. While the estimated cost per use of a PPB is 17 to 35 percent less than a comparable paperboard and wood pallet bin, suppliers' incentive to change is stifled by the fact that packaging costs are a relatively small portion of the product's total cost. The initial investment in PPBs and the administrative burden of a returnables program are major challenges to developing this market. Marketing efforts would be best directed at identifying and promoting advantages to converters who might then pressure their resin suppliers to switch.
Rewards are substantial A foothold in auto parts and food products has been established.
Expanding the markets for reusable plastic containers can lead to reduction in waste, and open a large potential market for recycled plastic resin in the manufacture of RPSCs. Bottom Line Consulting, 1998. Bottom Line Consulting, 1998.