Return system for reusable takeaway launched
As of November 26th, 2025, 34 return stations for reusable takeaway have been installed across the city center in Copenhagen. A system developed and operated by the company New Loop. Businesses switching to reusable packaging will enable customers to return used cups and food containers at the stations, which will then be washed and reused. Earlier this year, the system was piloted during the cycling event Copenhagen Sprint on the 21st and 22nd of June and during the Copenhagen Street Days and the European Championships in 3x3 Basketball on the 5th and 7th of September.
Below is an image of the return stations in the inner city, and an interactive map of all return stations can be found on New Loops Website.
Overview of return stations
Why should your business join?
Copenhagen is working toward becoming a cleaner, greener city - one without waste and with lower CO₂ emissions from single-use packaging. A significant share of the city’s waste comes from packaging for takeaway food and beverages sold by cafés, restaurants, and shops. By switching to reusable packaging, businesses can help reduce waste in the urban environment while preparing for the coming EU requirements on packaging and packaging waste (PPWR).
Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation
Under the new regulation(PPWR) food and drink outlets will gradually be required to offer reusable options:
- From February 12th, 2027: customers must be able to bring their own containers for takeaway, free of charge.
- From February 12th, 2028: businesses must offer reusable packaging as an alternative to single-use, at no extra cost to the customer, as part of an organized return system that ensures collection, washing, and reuse in practice.
By joining early, businesses not only contribute to a cleaner Copenhagen but also position themselves ahead of regulation - and strengthen their green profile in the process.
As the reusable system is already being implemented across the city, participating cafés and restaurants can easily offer reusable cups, bowls, and other containers that customers return after use. After just two wash cycles, reusable packaging is already more climate-friendly than single-use alternatives.
How to join
Ready to be part of Copenhagen’s journey towards a cleaner and more sustainable city? Switch to reusable packaging and get in touch with Sarosh Qureshi at sarosh.qureshi@kk.dk or +45 21 38 04 83.