PackLess
Supporting SME Sustainable Packaging Transformation
About Packless project
Project objectives
The PackLess Project was a 30-month Erasmus+ initiative supporting the implementation of zero-waste packaging solutions. It directly addressed the European Parliament and Council Directive 94/62/EC of 20 December 1994 on packaging and packaging waste, which aimed to prevent the production of packaging waste, promote reuse and recycling, and reduce final disposal — all contributing to the transition to a circular economy. The project also aligned with the EU’s Circular Economy Action Plan (CEAP).
The project achieved the following:
1. Improved partners’ competencies in building sustainable organisations and designing digital, habit-forming educational tools.
2. Increased awareness within partner organisations about sustainable packaging choices, leading to better procurement practices.
3. Encouraged the active search for innovative SME solutions through a compendium of success stories and an educational package.
4. Developed the PackLess Training Platform to raise sustainability awareness, particularly around sustainable packaging models and workplace habits. The platform, with OER in English, Polish, Bulgarian, and German, supported effective and engaging learning.
5. Delivered a PackLess Guide to Support SMEs and VET educators, with a modular curriculum for SME staff responsible for packaging and logistics. It included methods for educators to design digital resources for promoting green work behaviours.
6. Disseminated the platform and compendium across four countries through online and in-person activities.
The project was implemented by five partner organisations across Germany, Austria, Poland, and Bulgaria.
The PackLess Training Platform
The PackLess Training Platform aims to serve owners and VET providers by educating SME (Small and Medium-sized Enterprises) staff and leaders responsible for packaging, procurement, distribution, and logistics. It serves as an interactive resource center providing information and inspiration on zero waste packaging, including standards, legislation, literature, good practices, methods, and tools. Each learning unit delivers defined learning outcomes in terms of knowledge, skills, and competencies, which can be assessed and validated consistently.
Predefined sections of the PackLess Training Platform:
Unwrapping Sustainable Packaging
The Power Of Sustainable Packaging For Your Brand
Legal And Financial Aspects
Technical Aspects
Examples & Inspirations
Implementing Changes
The platform development process was based on collaboration with SME leaders and VET trainers, especially in later stages. Their involvement fostered a strong sense of ownership and advocacy for the educational content.
