The invisible UV tags can be read at MRFs that have been retrofitted with Polytag Detection Units to provide packaging data in real-time.
As one of the UK’s largest MRFs, the Edmonton facility handles 250,000 tonnes of waste annually.
Craig Konczak, business director for MRFs and PRFs at Biffa, said: “With growing demand for improved visibility and traceability of packaging and products across the value chain, from cradle to grave, digital tracking tools have the potential to revolutionise recycling.
“That’s why we’re delighted to be working with Polytag to gather new insights into the real-world application of these tools and explore the data being retrieved from our recovery facilities.
“In the future, tools such as these have the potential to improve the visibility of material flows in the UK, provide greater insights into recycling behaviour, and help to inform strategic decision-making and recycling policy in the UK.”
Polytag Ecotrace Programme
Through its Ecotrace Programme, Polytag aims to install 12 Plastic Detection Units at MRFs across the UK, which will provide coverage of over 50% of the UK’s household recycling stream.
The programme launched in July 2024, with the Edmonton MRF marking its seventh installation.
Alice Rackley, CEO of Polytag, added: “As Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and Simpler Recycling regulations come into effect, businesses face a pressing need for accurate, real-time data about the lifecycle of recycled packaging materials.
“Developing our collaboration with Biffa comes at the perfect moment for us, granting access to barcode-level packaging data within the UK’s most populated city for the first time.
“Through our Ecotrace Programme, this will help our brand clients understand the complex recycling journey of packaging in London while allowing them to stay ahead of complicated legislative changes.
“Please get in touch to support our Ecotrace Programme, if your brand needs this insight – we would be delighted to welcome you onboard!”
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