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The Role of Deposit Return Schemes (DRS) in the UK
17 Aug 2024
author
Polytag teamStay in the loop
The UK's Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) is more than just a recycling initiative—it's a push towards sustainable living. As Scotland leads the way, GS1 UK and Polytag are pioneering technologies that ensure every bottle and can makes its way back into the recycling loop. This cultural shift aims to reduce litter, enhance recycling rates, and make sustainability a seamless part of our lives.Read more
The Role of Deposit Return Schemes (DRS) in the UK
  • • Information
  • • Case study
  • • Legislation
  • • Policy
  • • QR tech
GS1 UK and Polytag Spearhead Groundbreaking Deposit Return Scheme
16 Aug 2024
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Discover how GS1 UK and Polytag are transforming recycling in the UK through the groundbreaking Deposit Return Scheme. Learn about the innovative use of GS1 Digital Link and QR codes to enhance consumer engagement, boost recycling rates, and achieve sustainability goals. Explore Scotland's pioneering role and the nationwide adoption of these eco-friendly practices by 2025.Read more
GS1 UK and Polytag Spearhead Groundbreaking Deposit Return Scheme
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  • • News
  • • FMCG
  • • Policy
Scan to Recycle Explained
29 Jul 2024
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Discover how 'scan to recycle' technology is revolutionising waste management in the FMCG industry. Learn from Alice Rackley, CEO of Polytag, about implementing QR codes, NFC tags, and barcodes to improve recycling rates, comply with UK regulations, and engage consumers. This guide offers practical steps and real-world examples to help businesses enhance their sustainability efforts and reduce environmental impact.Read more
Scan to Recycle Explained
  • • Information
  • • QR Tech
  • • Policy
  • • Sustainability
  • • QR tech
Digital Deposit Return Scheme Explained
21 Jun 2024
author
Polytag teamStay in the loop
Discover the revolutionary Digital Deposit Return Scheme (DDRS) by Polytag, which enhances recycling through the use of QR codes on product packaging. This blog explores how DDRS simplifies the recycling process, incentivises consumers with financial rewards, and provides valuable insights for businesses, contributing to a more sustainable future. Learn how Polytag's innovative approach is transforming recycling efforts and promoting environmental responsibility.Read more
Digital Deposit Return Scheme Explained
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  • • Case study
  • • QR tech
  • • Policy
  • • Sustainability
Deposit Return Scheme: What Is it?
21 Jun 2024
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
The Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) is revolutionising recycling by incentivising the return of beverage containers for refunds. This blog explores the effectiveness of DRS in countries like Germany and Sweden, highlights digital innovations by Polytag, and discusses the benefits, challenges, and future of DRS. Discover how this system is paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future.Read more
Deposit Return Scheme: What Is it?
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  • • Information
  • • QR Tech
  • • FMCG
  • • QR tech
  • • Policy
Download the Ocado Retail, Bower and Polytag report
23 Oct 2023
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Discover the impressive outcomes of the partnership between Ocado Retail, Bower, and Polytag through our latest report. In just 56 days, our Digital Deposit Return Scheme (DDRS) facilitated over 20,000 rewards, as customers embraced QR code scanning to recycle their milk bottles. With 80% of participants expressing strong likelihood to use such digital methods for deposits in the future, our initiative not only demonstrates the effectiveness of DDRS but also marks a significant step forward in sustainable consumer practices.Read more
Download the Ocado Retail, Bower and Polytag report
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  • • FMCG
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  • • Sustainability
Ocado Retail gives 20p back to customers that recycle its milk bottles in world-first with Polytag
13 Oct 2023
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Ocado Retail is set to launch a groundbreaking recycling incentive program, a first in the world, where customers can earn 20p for each Ocado Own-Brand milk bottle they recycle. By scanning a unique QR code on the bottle and using the Bower app, consumers can directly receive their rewards, demonstrating a practical and convenient digital deposit return scheme. This initiative, starting July 14, not only offers financial incentives but also aligns with future national recycling strategies, making it easier and more rewarding for customers to recycle.Read more
Ocado Retail gives 20p back to customers that recycle its milk bottles in world-first with Polytag
  • • Pilots
  • • QR tech
  • • FMCG
  • • Policy
Pilots | Bower & Ocado Retail
15 Jul 2023
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Polytag has partnered with Ocado Retail to launch an innovative recycling initiative, rewarding shoppers with 20p per item recycled from home using the Bower app. The pilot project, which started in November 2022, features unique-every-time GS1 Digital Link QR codes on Ocado's milk packaging. These codes ensure fraud-proof redemption and direct customers to a sustainability-focused landing page. This world-first printing method gives each package its own identity, providing Ocado with deeper insights into the packaging lifecycle. The success of this pilot demonstrates the potential for a Digital Deposit Return Scheme, paving the way for future expansion.Read more
Pilots | Bower & Ocado Retail
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  • • Legislation
  • • Policy
  • • QR tech
Legislation - Your Guide To Customer Engagement
3 Feb 2023
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Explore the benefits of QR codes in enhancing customer engagement and promoting sustainability with Polytag. Our innovative solutions allow businesses to create branded landing pages, gain unique analytics, and support Digital Deposit Return Schemes. QR codes offer a versatile, space-efficient way to connect with customers and meet sustainability goals. Learn more about how Polytag's QR code technology can transform your business.Read more
Legislation - Your Guide To Customer Engagement
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  • • Information
  • • Policy
  • • QR tech
Statement from Polytag on the Government’s response to the Consultation Introducing a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
20 Jan 2023
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
In response to the government's latest consultation on the Deposit Return Scheme, Polytag CEO Alice Rackley expresses mixed feelings. While welcoming the openness to a hybrid DRS model, she voices disappointment over doubts regarding digital labelling technologies and concerns about fraud. Rackley reaffirms Polytag’s commitment to proving that their digital solutions, such as unique QR codes, can effectively reduce fraud and enhance consumer recycling practices, paving the way for successful implementation by October 2025.Read more
Statement from Polytag on the Government’s response to the Consultation Introducing a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
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  • • Policy
  • • QR tech
Polytag’s CEO responds to Society of Independent Brewers’s Letter to the Welsh Government
12 Jan 2023
author
Polytag teamStay in the loop
In a detailed response to the Society of Independent Brewers, Polytag CEO Alice Rackley emphasises the necessity of a unified approach to the UK's Deposit Return Scheme (DRS). Rackley outlines Polytag's commitment to a hybrid DRS model, combining digital solutions with traditional methods to address legislative uncertainties, prevent fraud, and ensure compatibility with existing recycling processes. Her letter highlights the successes of recent trials and Polytag's readiness to contribute to a more effective national recycling strategy.Read more
Polytag’s CEO responds to Society of Independent Brewers’s Letter to the Welsh Government
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  • • FMCG
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  • • Sustainability
Daily Telegraph: Ocado shoppers could get cash back to scan recycling under delayed deposit return scheme
25 Nov 2022
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Ocado trials innovative QR code technology on milk bottles to simplify recycling and cash-back process for customers. This pioneering initiative, developed by Polytag, aims to improve recycling rates and combat littering ahead of the UK's anticipated deposit return scheme in 2024.Read more
Daily Telegraph: Ocado shoppers could get cash back to scan recycling under delayed deposit return scheme
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  • • Policy
MRW Magazine: Data standard launched to address packaging EPR obligations
25 Nov 2022
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Polytag partners with Ocado Retail to launch a pioneering on-pack Digital Deposit Return Scheme (DDRS) technology trial, aiming to boost UK recycling rates with unique QR codes on milk bottles. Discover how this initiative aligns with new EPR data standards and promises to reshape consumer recycling habits.Read more
MRW Magazine: Data standard launched to address packaging EPR obligations
  • • Information
  • • Legislation
  • • Policy
Legislation - Understanding Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)
23 Nov 2022
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation is transforming how businesses manage packaging waste. EPR requires producers to take full lifecycle responsibility for their products, promoting sustainability and reducing environmental impact. Polytag's Describe, Tag and Trace technology provides detailed data on packaging, helping businesses comply with EPR regulations and support a circular economy. Learn about EPR implementation in the UK, its benefits, and how Polytag can assist your business in navigating these changes. Contact us for more information on how to prepare for EPR legislation.Read more
Legislation - Understanding Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)
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  • • Sustainability
  • • QR tech
Delays to DRS are in nobody’s interest
23 Nov 2022
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Alice Rackley, CEO of Polytag, advocates for the adoption of Digital Deposit Return Schemes (DDRS) to address the UK's recycling challenges and avoid further delays in environmental policy implementation. Explore how digital solutions can save costs, enhance recycling efficiency, and support the circular economy.Read more
Delays to DRS are in nobody’s interest
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  • • Policy
  • • Sustainability
Polytag comments on Prime Minister’s recycling remarks
26 Oct 2022
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Phil Sutton, founder of Polytag and a leading voice in sustainability, addresses the Prime Minister's recent statements on recycling, emphasising the critical role of plastics in product protection and the importance of advancing recycling technologies. By collaborating with the Welsh government, Polytag demonstrates high engagement in recycling initiatives, showcasing the potential for significant environmental impact through innovative deposit return schemes.Read more
Polytag comments on Prime Minister’s recycling remarks
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Legislation
16 Aug 2022
author
Polytag teamStay in the loop
The UK has introduced several reforms to tackle environmental issues, focusing on sustainable packaging and traceability. Deposit Return Schemes, Extended Producer Responsibility, and the Plastic Packaging Tax encourage eco-friendly practices among producers and retailers. Polytag technology aids in compliance by enabling detailed tracking of packaging throughout the circular economy. Additionally, Digital Waste Tracking streamlines processes for waste companies, enhancing traceability and efficiency. These initiatives represent significant steps towards a more sustainable future.Read more
Legislation
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Polytag’s CEO responds to Scottish Parliament’s Cross-party for Beers and pubs’ on Scotland’s DRS
11 Jul 2022
author
Polytag teamStay in the loop
In response to the Scottish Parliament's scrutiny of the Deposit Return Scheme, Polytag CEO Alice Rackley champions the adoption of Digital DRS as a superior alternative. Highlighting its potential to curb cross-border fraud and reduce environmental impact, Rackley argues that digital tagging of recyclables could align with current UK recycling practices, offering convenience and sustainability without the extensive use of reverse vending machines. This digital shift promises to transform the UK's recycling landscape by fostering easier and more effective recycling methods.Read more
Polytag’s CEO responds to Scottish Parliament’s Cross-party for Beers and pubs’ on Scotland’s DRS
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  • • Legislation
  • • Policy
Legislation - Your guide to Digital Waste Tracking
30 Apr 2022
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Digital Waste Tracking is set to transform waste management by allowing real-time tracking of waste and resources across the economy. Polytag supports this initiative, aiming to tag and trace all packaging and waste digitally. Learn about the UK government's upcoming digital waste tracking service, the recent public consultation, and how Polytag's innovative solutions can help streamline waste management processes and reduce waste crime.Read more
Legislation - Your guide to Digital Waste Tracking
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  • • Legislation
  • • Policy
Legislation - Plastic Packaging Tax
26 Apr 2022
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
The UK Plastic Packaging Tax, introduced on April 1, 2022, aims to reduce single-use plastics by incentivizing the use of recycled materials. Polytag's innovative Describe, Tag and Trace technology helps businesses comply with the tax by tracking and managing plastic packaging throughout its lifecycle. This technology provides transparency, supports tax calculations, and helps brands promote their sustainability efforts. Learn how Polytag can assist with effective management of the Plastic Packaging Tax and improve your sustainability practices.Read more
Legislation - Plastic Packaging Tax
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  • • Legislation
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Legislation - Extended Producer Responsibility
23 Apr 2022
author
Polytag teamStay in the loop
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation requires manufacturers to manage the full lifecycle of their products, encouraging sustainable choices in packaging. Starting in 2023, UK businesses will bear financial responsibility for product packaging post-use. Polytag's innovative Describe, Tag and Trace technology helps businesses comply with EPR by tracking and analyzing packaging throughout its lifecycle. Discover the benefits of EPR and how it promotes higher recycling rates and sustainable practices. Learn more about how Polytag can assist your business in preparing for EPR legislation.Read more
Legislation - Extended Producer Responsibility
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  • • Policy
Polytag comments on the government’s EPR consultation response
30 Mar 2022
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Alice Rackley, CEO of Polytag, welcomes the announcement of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) consultation, highlighting the positive steps towards incentivising sustainable packaging design. However, she points out the critical inconsistencies and gaps in the legislation, advocating for digital innovations to address these challenges effectively. Polytag is poised to collaborate with various stakeholders to ensure that the new EPR framework supports enhanced recycling outcomes and operational efficiencies.Read more
Polytag comments on the government’s EPR consultation response
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Polytag prepares for the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) rush by appointing new CEO
30 Dec 2021
author
Polytag teamStay in the loop
Polytag has appointed Alice Rackley, former Head of UK Retail at GS1 UK, as its new CEO. Alice brings extensive retail and technology experience to lead Polytag through a significant growth period, focusing on the development of innovative solutions for deposit return schemes and Extended Producer Responsibility. As the UK moves towards adopting these schemes, Alice's leadership is set to propel Polytag and its stakeholders toward enhanced sustainability and effective resource management.Read more
Polytag prepares for the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) rush by appointing new CEO
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  • • Legislation
  • • Policy
  • • QR tech
Legislation - Digital Deposit Return Schemes
6 Dec 2021
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Polytag introduces Digital Deposit Return Schemes (DDRS) as a revolutionary approach to recycling. Leveraging existing kerbside infrastructure, DDRS offers a convenient, low-cost, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional recycling methods. Our technology uses serialised tags and a smartphone app to streamline the recycling process, increasing engagement and reducing carbon emissions. Discover how DDRS can benefit consumers, businesses, and the environment.Read more
Legislation - Digital Deposit Return Schemes
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  • • Policy
Polytag comments on Scotland DRS announcement
16 Nov 2021
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Following the latest delay in Scotland’s Deposit Return Scheme, Alice Rackley of Polytag voices concerns over the continued focus on traditional models involving reverse vending machines. Highlighting the success of the digital DRS pilot in Conwy, Wales, Rackley emphasises the benefits of integrating deposit return schemes with existing household recycling processes, calling for a shift towards innovative, digital solutions to meet environmental targets more effectively.Read more
Polytag comments on Scotland DRS announcement
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Legislation - Understanding Digital DRS
5 Nov 2021
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Polytag's Digital Deposit Return Scheme (DDRS) offers a transformative approach to recycling by leveraging QR codes and app-based technology. This innovative solution integrates seamlessly with existing kerbside collections, making it easy for consumers to recycle and reclaim deposits from home. Learn about the benefits of DDRS, its impact on reducing waste, and how it supports a circular economy. Discover how Polytag is leading the way in digital recycling technology and book a demonstration today.Read more
Legislation - Understanding Digital DRS
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  • • Sustainability
Kerbside deposit return schemes prove their value to brands and households
7 Oct 2021
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
The Kerbside Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) pilot in Conwy, North Wales, marked a significant success, with an impressive 97% of participating households engaging in the initiative. This pilot, leveraging Polytag technology and supported by the Welsh Government and local councils, demonstrated the effectiveness of at-home QR code scanning for recycling, underscoring the potential of digital DRS to foster sustainable practices and offer valuable insights into consumer recycling behaviors.Read more
Kerbside deposit return schemes prove their value to brands and households
  • • Pilots
  • • Policy
  • • QR tech
Pilots | Conwy Pilot
21 Aug 2021
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
In 2021, Polytag partnered with the Welsh Government, Conwy Council, and WRAP Cymru to deliver the UK’s first Digital Deposit Return Scheme (DDRS) pilot. Conducted in Conwy, North Wales, this groundbreaking initiative aimed to integrate DDRS technologies into existing council waste collection services. With an impressive 97% engagement rate from participating households, the pilot demonstrated the potential of DDRS to revolutionize recycling practices. Wales, a leader in recycling, is committed to becoming a zero waste country by 2050. This pilot marks a significant step towards achieving that goal, showcasing the importance of collaboration and innovation in creating a circular economy.Read more
Pilots | Conwy Pilot
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Polytag’s becomes GS1 UK partner
21 Jun 2021
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Polytag has achieved a significant milestone with the GS1 UK partner approval, validating its describe, tag, and trace technology against stringent global standards. This certification ensures that Polytag's solutions adhere to GS1 identification keys and can effectively support the recycling process. Joining forces with GS1 UK, Polytag is set to present at LARAC Wales 2022, discussing digital DRS and EPR compliance, crucial for enhancing local waste and recycling services.Read more
Polytag’s becomes GS1 UK partner
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The Greasby Trial - Testing Digital Deposit Return Scheme System
18 Jun 2021
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
In Q4 2019, Polytag conducted the Greasby Trial, a landmark project involving 50 households to test a digital approach to recycling. Participants used a mobile app to scan items tagged with unique codes, contributing to a successful recycling process at Polytag’s facility. The trial, which significantly boosted local recycling efforts and supported community schools, demonstrated the practicality and community benefits of digital recycling systems.Read more
The Greasby Trial - Testing Digital Deposit Return Scheme System
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Digital Deposit Return Scheme Pilot - Getting Ready With Conwy
26 May 2021
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Polytag teamStay in the loop
Polytag is set to commence its much-anticipated Digital Deposit Return Scheme pilot in Conwy, Wales. After fine-tuning our technology and conducting successful tests with partners like Allied Recycling, we are ready to demonstrate the power of RFID technology and unique digital identifiers in real-world recycling. This pilot promises to revolutionise recycling practices, offering a seamless integration of technology and community engagement for effective waste management. Join us in this innovative journey starting June 2021.Read more
Digital Deposit Return Scheme Pilot - Getting Ready With Conwy
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11 advantages of a Digital Deposit Return Scheme
22 Apr 2021
author
Polytag teamStay in the loop
Polytag introduces a pioneering Digital Deposit Return Scheme, leveraging tag and trace technology to streamline recycling and reduce environmental impact. This digital approach lowers operational costs, simplifies the recycling process for consumers, and integrates with existing waste management systems. Join us in revolutionising recycling and enhancing eco-responsibility.Read more
11 advantages of a Digital Deposit Return Scheme
  • What is a DPP (Digital Product Passport)?    Digital Product Passports (DPPs) redefine the transparency and traceability of products across their lifecycle. They compile essential data about a product's origin, materials, and environmental impact. DPPs serve a pivotal role in informing all stakeholders, including manufacturers, distributors, and consumers, about the sustainability practices and circular capabilities of products. This digital documentation system is of paramount importance as it aligns with the proposed Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation, aiming for a significant shift towards transparency and sustainability in manufacturing and consumerism. Digital Product Passports (DPPs) serve as a catalyst for businesses and organisations, guiding them towards sustainability and circular economy practices. In the business realm, DPPs unlock the door to improved product lifecycle management by providing detailed insights into each product's sustainability, environmental, and recyclability attributes. This visibility allows businesses to optimise their supply chains, reduce waste, and ultimately, lower costs associated with the production and disposal of goods.
  • Polytag’s Unique GS1 Digital Link QR Codes    Polytag's GS1 standard QR Codes stand out for their unique approach to integrating sustainability with technology. Catering especially to businesses aiming to monitor their products through their entire lifecycle—sale to disposal—Polytag's QR Codes offer a blend of customer engagement, product analytics, and a strong emphasis on recycling. What sets Polytag's QR Codes apart is our capacity to track a product from the point of sale right up to its recycling. This continuous monitoring allows businesses to gather extensive data on product use, disposal habits, and recycling rates, offering insights that traditional marketing strategies can't provide. By understanding these metrics, businesses can fine-tune their sustainability initiatives and develop targeted marketing strategies that resonate with environmentally conscious consumers.
  • What Is Scan To Recycle?    At the heart of the ‘Scan to Recycle’ system is the encouragement of environmentally friendly behaviours through incentives. Consumers can scan QR codes on their product's packaging, which allows businesses to provide additional information about their products to customers. This process can also lead consumers to partner platforms where their recycling efforts are recorded through Polytag’s innovative strategies of recycling technology. The DRS model as it stands has been widely considered a topic of controversy as consumers and industries debate the financial and logistical implications that reverse vending machines (RVMs) may present. Polytag is taking a holistic approach to the scheme, offering customers a digital option with its GS1-approved, unique-every-time QR codes that are seamlessly integrated onto packaging labels at printing point. Invisible UV tags are also applied to the labels enabling tracking and tracing back to dedicated recycling centres and offering brands and retailers unprecedented insights into the whereabouts of their products and packaging. From the moment a product is purchased until it is disposed of and recycled, every step can be tracked. This seamless tracking is crucial for businesses aiming to improve their sustainability practices and for consumers who want to ensure their efforts make a difference. Polytag's implementation of this system showcases the potential impact of integrating technology with sustainability efforts.