Experiment library: 12 low‑cost trials to find what works

These experiments are intentionally small and fast to run. Each entry includes a short hypothesis and a suggested quick success criterion so teams can choose pilots aligned to their context.

1. Reusable mealware pilot

   Hypothesis: A deposit and collection system will achieve a return rate that makes reusables cheaper over time. Success criterion: Return rate meets your target and net cost per service is stable or lower.

2. Refill station trial

   Hypothesis: Installing refill stations for water or common liquids will reduce packaged bottle purchases. Success criterion: Packaged purchase volumes decline measurably in the pilot area.

3. Bulk delivery and minimal secondary packaging

   Hypothesis: Switching a high‑volume SKU to bulk reduces packaging weight and handling costs. Success criterion: Supplier provides bulk option and packaging weight per unit decreases.

4. Deposit for reusable containers

   Hypothesis: Small deposits significantly increase return rates. Success criterion: Return rate improves over baseline within 4 weeks.

5. On‑site composting for organics

   Hypothesis: Diverting food waste to on‑site compost reduces disposal costs and landfill volume. Success criterion: Measured organics diverted and reliable processing established.

6. Returnable pallet/container program

   Hypothesis: Replacing single‑use pallets or crates with returnable systems reduces procurement and disposal costs. Success criterion: Logistics tested with one supplier and returns tracked.

7. Repair and spare parts pool

   Hypothesis: Creating a local pool of repairable components reduces waste and downtime. Success criterion: Number of items repaired vs replaced in pilot scope.

8. Packaging redesign sprint

   Hypothesis: Minor packaging changes (reduce thickness, remove inner liners) preserve product function while cutting material use. Success criterion: Supplier trial completes and product integrity maintained.

9. Behavioral nudge for separation

   Hypothesis: Better signage and a point‑of‑use reminder improve separation quality. Success criterion: Contamination rates fall in the pilot area.

10. Consolidate suppliers for packaging

    Hypothesis: Reducing SKUs or suppliers simplifies reuse and reduces packaging variance. Success criterion: Procurement reports fewer SKUs and improved reuse feasibility.

11. Deposit‑return for hazardous/regulated items

    Hypothesis: A managed return process for regulated consumables reduces improper disposal and improves compliance. Success criterion: Fewer regulatory incidents and documented returns.

12. Test a partner reuse network

    Hypothesis: Partnering with local businesses for collection and cleaning spreads cost and increases scale. Success criterion: Network agreement reached and pilot collections succeed.

Each experiment should be scoped with a clear hypothesis, timeframe, measurement plan, and exit criteria. Use the Pilot Design template to capture those elements and ensure learning gets documented.