Polytag’s Technology Aids Waste Traceability in Wales
Recycling technology company Polytag is rolling out its innovative tracking system across Wales, aiming to provide detailed traceability of 146,000 tonnes of waste annually. This initiative is a significant step towards enhancing recycling processes and supporting the country’s commitment to a circular economy.
Polytag has integrated four plastic detection units at material recycling facilities (MRFs) in Conwy, Gwynedd, Pembrokeshire, and Anglesey. These new sites join Re-Gen’s MRF in Newry, Northern Ireland, and Biffa facilities in Edmonton and Teesside, further expanding the Ecotrace Programme, an industry-led effort that provides real-time data to brands, retailers and waste management businesses regarding their single-use plastic recycling.
Polytag’s system allows brands to monitor their plastic packaging as it moves through the recycling process. The technology employs invisible UV tags embedded in packaging artwork. These tags are scanned by PDUs, enabling brands to track the journey of their plastic products and pinpoint when and where they are recycled.
This project aligns with Wales’ strategic goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2030. The Welsh government’s Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI) Centre for Excellence provided a £100,000 grant to support the initiative.
Alice Rackley, CEO at Polytag, stated, “Wales is already a leader in recycling, currently holding the UK’s highest average recycling rate at a very impressive 66.5%. Installing these four new Plastic Detection Units across the country takes this success even further. It will generate invaluable data on what is being recycled and when, empowering brands to take full responsibility for their recycled packaging while also striving to increase that number even more.”
Kate Williams, Innovation Programme Manager at SBRI Centre of Excellence, added, “This initiative, made possible by the Circular Economy in the Public Sector SBRI Challenge, is a valuable step in improving recycling data in Wales.”
“Installing advanced tracking technology to promote a circular economy approach within our recycling streams is essential. We’re excited to witness the positive impact our collaboration with Polytag will have on collective sustainability targets and the potential it creates for improving recycling rates across the region.”
