London, 28 November 2025 – A new report released by the REUSE Foundation has shed light on the growing issue of plastic waste and the potential of reuse as a solution. Based on the first global survey of reuse-focused businesses, the report reveals a thriving industry driven by determined entrepreneurs, but hindered by structural barriers that prevent widespread adoption of reuse solutions.
The 2025 Reuse Practitioners Survey collected responses from 66 companies in 25 countries, providing a comprehensive look at the current state of the reuse industry. The findings show a sector brimming with innovation and momentum, but struggling to compete with entrenched single-use systems due to a lack of policy support, visibility, and financial backing.
One of the key findings of the report is that many reuse businesses face challenges when it comes to navigating regulatory processes. 70% of respondents expressed a need for stronger policy support in order to drive growth. One company from the UK stated, “Policy is lacking. Reuse is the best thing for the environment but we don’t get any tax or other benefit from doing it—and nor do consumers.”
The survey also highlighted the diversity and innovation within the reuse industry, with companies operating in various categories such as household care, personal care, beauty, and more. However, despite the growth and establishment of many companies, the report emphasizes the need for collaboration in order to achieve meaningful scale. 77% of businesses expressed a desire to collaborate with other reuse providers, and 56% support the creation of a reuse impact alliance or knowledge sharing platform.
The report also sheds light on the motivations driving entrepreneurs in the reuse industry. Interviews with practitioners revealed a shared purpose of stopping plastic waste at the source, driven by both environmental mission and emerging commercial opportunities. However, the report notes that these businesses face significant challenges in competing with large incumbent companies that operate scaled linear supply chains and have deeply ingrained consumer habits.
Roger Sharp, trustee of the REUSE Foundation, stated, “Reuse is one of the most effective ways to cut plastic waste, but the businesses delivering these solutions are being left to do it alone. Reuse gets a fraction of the support given to recycling and single-use alternatives. These companies are solving the problem, and this industry is ready to scale. Now it needs governments and brands to step up.”
The findings of the report will inform the REUSE Foundation’s strategy and actions, as well as guide the development of new initiatives. For more information, please contact roger@reusefoundation.org or visit www.reusefoundation.org.
About REUSE Foundation:
REUSE Foundation is a UK-based charity that focuses on scaling pragmatic, impactful solutions to reduce reliance on single-use plastic. The organization works with reuse entrepreneurs, practitioners, and global experts to accelerate proven models that benefit both people and the planet. Some of their current programs include Sponsor a Village, Bottles for Good, and Refill, Not Landfill!. For more information, please visit www.reusefoundation.org.