Applying Innovation
To Improve Recycling Rates

A collaboration between Polytag and Citeo.

Learn more about how we’re supercharging the circular economy.

Request a Callback

Case Study: Citeo

  • Jon Anderson

    Chief Technology Officer, Polytag

  • Recycling Team

    Citeo

Polytag is transforming the circular economy for plastic packaging with an innovative “describe, tag and trace” platform solution, enabling real-time data capture on single-use plastic packaging lifecycles. 

The Polytag solution recommends the application of UV watermarks directly onto packaging labels, which are scanned by Polytag Plastic Detection Units installed at recycling centres. 

Brands and recyclers can access accounts through the Polytag platform and track where and when their packaging is disposed of and recycled, thanks to barcode-level data, reported on their Polytag dashboards.

An approved GS1 partner, Polytag is committed to upholding open standards, which are a key feature of cooperative supply chains.

Polytag Quote

“It’s been an honour to collaborate with Citeo with a joint aim of rigorously testing and, where appropriate, iterating our UV tag-and-trace technology. Our full report is now accessible and we are excited by the results.”

Jon Anderson, Chief Technology Officer

Portrait photo of Jon wearing a patterned shirt and charcoal blazer. There's a white bookcase in the background.

Collaborating Partners

This collaboration includes Citeo, an eco-organisation that implements actions to reduce the environmental impact of packaging and paper and Polytag, leaders in the RecTech industry with a mission to supercharge the circular economy and make recycling even more rewarding for customers and companies.

Conditions were tested at a leading recycling plant with guidance and engagement from all parties.

Our project involved exploring the accuracy of Polytag Plastic Detection Units when working in simulated and real-life condition. 

Our tests are designed to demonstrate the reliability of the Polytag solution under typical MRF operating conditions and are impartially reviewed. 

We believe in testing in real-life environments to better optimise and innovate. This enables us to continuously improve our Polytag Plastic Detection Units.

Results remain confidential, with the ambition to release a full report in Spring 2025.

Polytag Your Packaging

  • Live packaging lifecycle data

  • Talk directly to consumers

  • Offer rewards and incentives

  • Future-proof your labels

Request a Callback