Packaging waste from online retailers up 25% with Irish companies left footing the bill

Repak says it costs €1m per year to collect and recycle the packaging waste of international online retailers, most of whom don’t pay a cent towards the recycling costs 

In 2020, packaging waste generated from online shopping in Ireland increased by 2,953 tonnes, the equivalent of 15 million standard sized parcels or 9 parcels per household.

Packaging waste generated from online shopping in Ireland is up 25% this year, representing an increase of 2,953 tonnes or the equivalent of 15 million standard-sized parcels.

That's according to new research by Repak, who are highlighting the figures in light of the fact 3,400 businesses, most of whom are Irish companies, will bear the costs of recycling the additional packaging waste despite much of it being generated by online retailers outside the country.