bpost wantsmoves towards sustainable vanding machines

Interreg NSR Procirc pilot project

In this project all water fountains and vending machines warm drinks (coffee/tea facilities), vending machines cold drinks (soft drinks) and vending machines snacks need to be replaced. Bpost would like to install new machines that are energy-efficient and produce less waste. Bpost is also focussing on healthy products (local products) that are sold in the machines.The project contributes to a more circular economy by focussing on two main objectives:

1. Reduce energy consumption. Bpost believes this could be achieved by energy efficient cooling techniques, turn off machines at night/during weekends and holidays, smart meters, reduce the use of lamps and lighting.
2. Reduce waste, which will be gained on different levels:

• Packaging: minimize single use plastics in machines and accessories (cups, plastic stir sticks).
• Packaging in supply chain for transport & filling.
• End of life of coffee grounds; options to collect separately, organize reversed logistics and further valorize this waste stream.
• Refurbishing and upgrading machines.

Besides positive environmental impact on waste and energy, the projects aims to realise the following objectives:

• Use the vending machines as a communication tool e.g. develop health programs (in combination with prevention services).
• Increase employee satisfaction by offering a wide range of products and services.
• Cost optimisation.

Read about the results in this publication.