ReBound Returns, a global leader in returns management, has reported a significant decrease in carbon emissions per parcel during the 2023-24 Peak season, compared to the previous year. This achievement comes as retailers across Europe are making efforts to improve sustainability amidst the annual surge in sales and returns during Black Friday.
The company, which handles millions of parcels every Peak season, has attributed this success to targeted sustainability measures, including greener transport options, improved route planning, and fuller truck loads. These efforts have resulted in a 23% reduction in average carbon emissions per parcel.
One of the key initiatives by ReBound was to increase the use of rail transport, with over a quarter of goods now being shipped by this more environmentally friendly method. This switch can reduce emissions per shipment by up to 89%. The company has also expanded its use of fully electric and hybrid vehicles, as well as HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) – a renewable diesel made from 100% vegetable oil or animal fats – which produces up to 89% fewer emissions per kilometre than standard diesel.
ReBound has also focused on maximizing truck capacity, which has helped lower emissions per parcel. Any remaining carbon footprint is then offset through the company’s carbon compensation programme.
The company’s commitment to sustainable return management has been well-received by customers, with a recent survey showing that over 70% of retail consumers in the UK consider it important for returns to be handled in an environmentally friendly manner.
Emily McGill, Sustainability Communications Manager at ReBound, said: “Returns are an inevitable part of retail, particularly after the Golden Quarter, but they don’t have to come with a heavy carbon cost. We’re proud that our work is making a tangible difference in reducing emissions during the most demanding period of the year. The retail sector has a unique opportunity to tackle a growing environmental challenge by optimizing the management of product returns, and we hope that the wider industry will join the charge.”
ReBound manages more than 100 million return transactions annually for some of the world’s best-known brands. Its technology and logistics network give retailers visibility and control over every stage of the returns process, supporting more circular and sustainable operations.
For more information about ReBound and its sustainable returns management solutions, please visit www.reboundreturns.com.
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Notes to editors
About ReBound
ReBound is a global leader in returns management, providing seamless omnichannel returns solutions for retailers and consumers. By combining integrated returns software with a comprehensive logistics network, ReBound offers a complete ecosystem of partners to efficiently and sustainably manage the entire returns process.
ReBound is part of Reconomy, the circular experts. For more information, please visit www.reboundreturns.com.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.