The PR3 Standards

Standards allow us to use our USB ports, our wireless phones, and ensure that our goods are delivered. As reuse re-writes the rules of global commerce for the better, standards will guide the path. The Standards allow a wide range of businesses and communities to easily plug into common infrastructure.

As we urgently move away from single-use packaging, standards will increase confidence from investors, consumers, businesses, governments, and communities. They will also advance social equity, convenience, and environmental performance. Standards enable multinationals, startups and local knowledge to all thrive.

The PR3 Standards currently include the following seven parts: Collection Points, Container design, Digital, Incentives, Labeling, System Operations & Performance, and Washing.

Standard Preamble and Overview

Core Normative Standards

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RES-001: Container design 
Full Document | Summary | French Translation Provided by the CSA Group

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RES-002: Container washing, inspection & packing for distribution 
Full Document | Summary

Labeling and Education icon
RES-003: Labeling
Full Document Summary

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RES-004: Digital 
Full Document | Summary

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RES-005: Systems Operations & Performance 
System Operations & Performance Standard- Coming Soon  

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RES-00X: Collection Points
Full Document | Summary

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RES-00X: Return Incentives 
Return Incentives Standard- Coming Soon  

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Use of the Reuse Rose indicates that an organization is making a good-faith effort to align with PR3 standards and establish interoperable reuse infrastructure or operations. Organizations that participate in interoperable reuse systems that align with PR3 standards are encouraged to apply the Reuse Rose to their assets.

Feedback on the standards.

These documents were prepared by PR3 with input from partners and stakeholders across the reuse supply chain. The information contained in them represents the views of PR3 only and does not indicate the views of any of PR3’s partners.

These are draft documents and are subject to change. As PR3 continues testing standards and developing reuse infrastructure, the current versions will be revised and new documents will be added to accommodate additional packaging and system formats.

If you would like to provide feedback on any part of the standards, please contact PR3 Technical Director Claudette Juska.

Standards development process.

RESOLVE's Reusable Packaging System Standards Panel (SP) is responsible for the development and maintenance of PR3’s reusable packaging standards. The SP reviews, revises, approves, and evolves PR3 standards following the requirements of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The SP ensures balance, transparency, public engagement, and consensus throughout the process. As economies transition to reuse, these system standards have the potential to impact communities, consumers, workers, businesses, governments, and other stakeholders. Representatives from all of these sectors are encouraged to participate.

Complete the application to be considered for the SP. We also welcome referrals to qualified individuals.