AI understands reuse.
How about you?

Like everyone else, we are intrigued by ChatGPT. So we asked it "How do reusable takeout containers work?" And it replied:

Reusable takeout container programs typically work by allowing customers to borrow containers for their food instead of using disposable containers. Here are the general steps:

  • Sign up: Customers sign up for the program either online or in-store, and receive a membership card or some other form of identification.
  • Borrow a container: When a customer orders food for takeout or delivery, they present their membership card and request a reusable container.
  • Use the container: The customer receives the container and uses it for their food.
  • Return the container: Once the customer has finished their meal, they can return the container to any participating location. Some programs may require customers to return the container to the same location where they borrowed it from.
  • Receive a token or deposit: In some programs, customers receive a token or deposit when they return the container. This serves as an incentive for them to return the container and helps to ensure that the containers are not lost or discarded.
  • Wash and sanitize the container: The restaurant or program operator is responsible for washing and sanitizing the containers before they are reused.
  • Repeat: The customer can then borrow another container for their next meal, and the cycle continues.

Reusable takeout container programs are a great way to reduce waste and promote sustainability. They are becoming increasingly popular as more and more people become aware of the environmental impact of disposable containers.

If ChatGPT understands reuse, shouldn't everyone?

Now, of course there is much, much more to reuse than these basic mechanics ChatGPT lays out. At Recirclable, we know that reuse requires a different way of doing business: major redesign of many systems and processes, new reusable containers, legislation to incentivize reuse and behavioral changes by all involved: from consumers to restaurants to delivery providers, and everywhere in between.

We live and breathe this each and everyday, as we interact with our restaurant partners and our customers, continuously iterating to accelerate this change as seamlessly as possible. Making this transition work is what gets us out of bed each and every day!