BRING YOUR OWN CONTAINER (BYOC) Initiative

Facilitating the transition to Malta’s Circular Economy

Welcome to the Bring Your Own Container (BYOC) initiative, an innovative environmentally concerned program spearheaded by Circular Economy Malta (CEMalta), the agency dedicated to facilitating the transition to a Circular Economy in Malta, under the Ministry for the Environment, Energy, and Regeneration of the Grand Harbour. Inspired by the principles of the Circular Economy, BYOC focuses on shifting away from single-use packaging to reusable packaging and keeping materials in the loop for as long as possible, all the while fostering a culture of behaviour change across Malta and Gozo.

Embracing Circular Practices through BYOC

In response to a growing global concern about plastic pollution and environmental degradation, CEMalta is taking proactive steps towards circularity. The linear ‘take, make, use, and dispose’ economy is driving the climate emergency. According to the International Resource Panel, extraction and processing of natural resources make up half of the total global greenhouse gas emissions and over 90% of water stress and biodiversity loss impacts.

Product reuse as opposed to single-use consumption is a fundamental principle of the circular economy, which can contribute to climate change mitigation by preventing resource depletion, diverting products and materials from landfills and incineration (therefore preventing associated emissions), and reducing energy demand.

According to a 2023 survey conducted by the National Statistics Office, an increasing number of Maltese citizens are embracing alternatives to single-use plastics and actively seeking ways to reduce plastic consumption. These findings have catalysed the launch of the BYOC initiative, aligning with Malta’s Circular Economy Strategic Vision, the Long-Term Waste Management Plan for Malta 2021-2030, the Single-Use Plastic Products Strategy for Malta 2021-2030, and the European Commission’s Circular Economy Action Plan.

The BYOC initiative encourages individuals to bring their own reusable containers for purchasing products such as, but not limited to, food, beverages, cleaning, and personal care. By incentivizing participation through financial incentives such as, but not limited to, discounts, loyalty programs, and additional content, the initiative aims to minimize the use of single-use packaging, promote reusability, and contribute to waste prevention.

Collaboration for a Circular Future

The BYOC initiative is a collaborative effort between the government, businesses, and consumers. Recognizing the importance of community involvement, CEMalta is working closely with local establishments to implement the program seamlessly. Participating operators receive recognition through branded material and a distinctive BYOC logo, signifying their commitment to reducing single-use waste and embracing sustainable practices, besides the online mapping displayed on the BYOC page at CE Malta’s website.

Eligibility

Any business entity operating in the Catering Undertaking and/or Retail sector, whether presently implementing or considering the introduction of a BYOC (Bring Your Own Container) initiative within their operational framework. Under the BYOC program, registered economic operators are encouraged to accept reusable containers from customers in exchange for a financial incentive at the time of purchase. A non-exhaustive list of potential financial incentives, as outlined:

• Discounts.
• Loyalty programs.
• Additional content.
• Etc.

By following these guidelines, operators play a pivotal role in reshaping consumer habits and actively contributing to the circular economy transition.

Guiding Principles and Operational Guidelines

To ensure the smooth operation of the BYOC initiative, CEMalta has developed comprehensive guidelines for both consumers and businesses. Our Operations Guidelines outline key considerations for containers, including acceptable materials, size requirements, hygiene standards, tare weights, and pricing structures. These guidelines prioritize transparency, fairness, and adherence to food safety regulations, promoting a positive and responsible BYOC experience for all stakeholders. Additionally, our Containers Inspection Procedure establishes minimum requirements for both businesses and consumers in guaranteeing the containers are suitable for refilling, emphasizing cleanliness, hygiene, and risk mitigation. For more information:

Registration & Accreditation

Economic operators are encouraged to register their BYOC initiative with the Agency by filling out a registration form. Upon successful registration and implementation, recognised economic operators receive branded material and a BYOC logo to display within their establishments, and the online mapping displayed on the BYOC page at CE Malta’s website showcases their commitment to reducing single-use waste and encouraging customers to bring their own containers.

This recognition acts as a catalyst for elevating consumer awareness and fostering a culture of responsible consumption. It stands as a visible and esteemed mark of unwavering commitment to circular business practices and circular consumer behaviour. The Agency reserves the right to conduct unannounced site visits to ensure compliance and may revoke the registration and the ‘Recognition Mark’ if the economic operator is found non-compliant with the participation conditions of the BYOC initiative.

BYOC Recognition Process Timeline

De-Registration of BYOC accreditation

As per the terms and conditions of the Bring Your Own Container (BYOC) Initiative, registered and accredited participants maintain the right to de-register and/or withdraw their accreditation at any time. To initiate this process, participants must communicate their intent in writing to the Agency at byoc@cemalta.gov.mt

Upon receipt of such notification, the Agency will promptly cease all ongoing registration or recognition processes. This will lead to the immediate removal of the participant’s recognition logo, advertisement material, and display on the BYOC page on CE Malta’s website. This provision ensures that the de-registration or withdrawal process is expeditious and compliant with the established procedures outlined by the Agency.

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

For detailed information on the BYOC initiative, please refer to our FAQs document, which addresses common inquiries regarding the scope of the initiative, acceptable containers, health and safety considerations, and individual participation guidelines.

Join the Movement Towards Reusability and Circularity

As global awareness of environmental issues continues to grow, the BYOC initiative stands as a testament to Malta’s commitment to environmental stewardship and circular economy principles. By embracing reusable containers and promoting mindful consumption, we can collectively reduce waste, preserve natural resources, and build a more resilient and sustainable society for future generations.

Together, let’s make a difference. Join the BYOC initiative today and be part of Malta’s journey towards a cleaner, greener, and more circular future.