You operate your reusables program with the best intentions, but it only works if diners return containers and then keep reusing. For reusable containers to make environmental sense, they need to be reused repeatedly. The more, the better.

Research shows that, in terms of environmental impact, reusable plastic containers break even with single-use plastic containers after 5 uses. The environmental benefits come with repeated use, and repeated use happens when programs are set up just right.

Getting diners to engage with reusables programs repeatedly generally hinges on two things:

• Being crystal clear about how they work
• Making it as easy as possible to use

What We Wanted To Do

We saw a big opportunity to get diners even more involved with ReusePass. Students are busy, and sometimes containers don’t get returned. Between classes, exams and socializing, returning the container they used a day ago might slip their minds. Or maybe they tried the program once, but the habit didn’t quite stick. While you can’t find out exactly why they stopped, you can encourage them to re-engage. What’s the best way to do this? With high-impact, targeted user communications.

We recognize that ReusePass gives students the capacity to reuse, but intentional outreach solves the behavior. We wanted to take our user engagement to the next level, grounded in data about what actually influences behavior. Based on the insights we gained through testing—with over 130k emails sent to diners—we’re now introducing the ReusePass Engagement+ messaging suite, designed to enhance diners’ experience while boosting your reuse ROI.

From First Reuse to Power User

Students signing up for and trying out ReusePass is a great signal, but our goal is to create as many power users as possible. In one phase of message testing across existing ReusePass campuses, we focused on the deciding moment where a student might drift away from the program after their first use. We wanted to see if a specific kind of check-in could bridge the gap between just reusing once and becoming a ReusePass power user.

The verdict: A well-timed, friendly nudge boosts program engagement, converting nearly 10% of inactive users back to active participants. This proves that you don’t need to pester them—just remind them the program is there if they want to use it.

Growing Container Confidence

You might worry that containers are leaving the building and won’t be seen again. But in the years since we launched ReusePass, we’ve seen that students have good intentions. They’re excited by reusables programs and want to get involved—but to feel confident that everything is working as intended, they need to be kept in the loop.

The threat of a fine alone isn’t enough to ensure all containers are returned. But students do actively want to know what’s happening every time they drop off a container. If a student returns their container and doesn’t receive an email confirming the return (even though they can see their rental statuses in the ReusePass web app), they might assume it wasn’t registered and worry they’ll receive a fine. Sending return confirmations to students for every rental increases confidence in the returns process and reduces returns inquiries by 50%. It’s a win-win for both students and campus dining teams.

Then there’s the sustainability element. Sustainability really matters to students. One survey found that 48% of respondents prefer a sustainable university to one ranked in the top 100. Emails that acknowledge the return and the impact of using the system are a big confidence booster, reassuring the user that their participation is making a tangible difference.

When it comes down to it, a confident user is a consistent one, and consistency is essential for a truly sustainable campus.

Get In on the Action

Targeted user communications build confidence, drive higher participation and maximize the long-term success of ReusePass programs. We’re currently seeing an average of 17+ uses per container across all campuses—well above the environmental breakeven point. But with high-impact outreach, we’re confident we can push that figure even higher to maximize your ROI while increasing campus sustainability.

Building directly on client feedback and message testing results, we’ve developed the ReusePass Engagement+ suite—high-impact emails designed to strengthen participation, boost return rates and support teams throughout the semester.

These messages plug directly into existing ReusePass workflows and are managed by Topanga, so there’s no added lift for your team.

Here’s what we’re offering:‍

• Participation Booster: Re-engage inactive users mid-semester with targeted, personalized outreach that brings students back to the program.
• ‍Return Confirmations: Updates confirming when containers are returned, increasing user confidence and trust.‍
• Seasonal Return Reminders: Well-timed nudges before breaks and holidays to keep containers circulating and protect ROI.‍
• Accountability Prompts: Smart reminders for repeat late returners, customizable to your team’s comfort level.‍
• 2 x Bespoke Campaigns: Dedicated, customizable ReusePass announcements or initiatives sent to your users through our channels.

With this rollout, we’re continuing to build a strong campus culture around waste reduction—not just a container tracking system.

If you’re already a ReusePass client, our team is ready and available to walk you through the new messaging suite. To learn more and find time for an in-depth overview, email clientsuccess@topanga.io to let us know you’re interested, and we’ll take it from there!

If you’re considering a new reusables program and want a high-performing, straightforward solution, then request time with our team here to learn how ReusePass could meet your specific needs.