Any broad movement away from single-use packaging will not happen in the foreseeable future: a study published April 25 reports that single-use packaging is expanding at a CAGR of 5.81% during the forecast period of 2022-2026.

Does growth in “one-and-done” packaging bug you, too?

An on-trend solution to the single-use problem is through refillable packaging; recent product examples include soap, popcorn, cosmetics, and kibble.

Now a surprising new market can be added to the growing list: insect repellent. As with several of the other brands that have expanded into reusable packaging, this latest application also relies on the efficiency of flexible packaging along with resusable and recyclable bottles.

Ranger Ready Repellents announced on Earth Day April 22 an earth-friendly solution using the company's EPA-registered personal repellents. It's the first repellent product specifically designed to refill previously used packaging. The use of refills packaged in pouches reduces waste and the brand's carbon footprint.  The company reports that, according to studies, use of refills creates 70% less carbon dioxide, 60% less energy, and 45% less water than purchasing a new single-use bottle.

Ranger Ready Refills pouches offer 24 ounce/710 mL of Ranger Ready Scent Zero Picaridin 20% body-worn repellent that delivers more than 230 full-body spray applications of bite protection from ticks, mosquitos, and flies.

Addresses disposal problems with aluminum spray cans.

The single-use packaging format this is being eliminated is also an unusual choice; rather than rigid plastic bottles that have been the target of most brands' refill programs, Ranger Ready is going after single-use, pressurized aluminum spray cans.

"Ranger Ready's mission is to prevent everyone from being bitten by bugs while being earth-friendly at the same time," says Chris L. Fuentes, founder and CEO of Ranger Ready Repellents. "By using 360-degree pump sprays, we eliminate the need for isobutane propellants in aluminum cans that end up in landfills. Each Ranger Ready Refills pouch prevents putting up to six cans in the garbage.”

Evan Kesten, the company’s VP of sales, provides more details. “The reusable bottles are made of recyclable PET," he tells us. "Also, we do not use any propellant in our formulas. Because we source triggers and pump sprays that work upside down, our customers can use all of the ‘juice’ inside and then recycle accordingly. Our understanding of traditional aerosol and bag-on-valve cans is that most are never recycled because of the time and effort required to properly dispose of the flammable propellant inside each. As such, we are excited about this first-generation refill.”

The stand-up pouches that feature an easy-pour spout are offered in the following stock-keeping units and suggested pricing: singles for $45.00, two-packs for $80, and complete Ranger Ready Refill Kits featuring one refillable pouch along with one 8 oz / 235 mL bottle of Picaridin 20% body-worn repellent for $60.

In addition to the refillable packaging launch, Ranger Ready unveiled its Earth Day Volunteers Program, whereby the company donates repellents to protect volunteers working with non-profit organizations to clean up our communities, parks, and natural environments. In 2022, the company donated repellent to more than thirty organizations including the 1,200 Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance volunteers in Appleton, WI.

Ranger Ready Refills are available exclusively at www.rangerready.com where the company is giving away a free Ranger Ready Refills pouch with each order of more than $100 through April 30.