Polytag, an innovative data platform provider specializing in food and beverage packaging information within the circular economy, has partnered with Pellenc ST, a leader in designing and producing intelligent sorting and quality control systems for the waste and recycling industry.
This strategic partnership aims to enhance material recovery and traceability by combining advanced invisible UV watermark-based tracking with sophisticated sorting technology.
Through the integration of Pellenc ST’s expertise in sensor-based sorting and Polytag’s data management capabilities, the collaboration facilitates real-time tracking and optimization of food and beverage packaging waste throughout the recycling process—from Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) to recyclers. Each packaging item is embedded with invisible printed UV watermarks, utilizing GS1 open standard data matrices. As packaging enters the recycling stream, a detection unit instantly captures associated data. The system executes precise sorting actions based on near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and UV watermarks.
This non-exclusive partnership grants recycling facilities advanced capabilities to detect and sort waste streams more effectively. By embedding smart data at the barcode level directly into food and beverage packaging materials, the collaboration empowers waste management companies and brand owners to gain control over their products’ recycling journeys, ensuring that more packaging remains within the circular economy.
“Our partnership with Pellenc ST marks a significant milestone for circularity,” stated Alice Rackley, CEO of Polytag. “By combining our UV watermark technology, powered by GS1 standards, with their smart sorting and quality control solutions, we are providing brand owners with unparalleled insight into their recycled packaging, thereby reinforcing sustainability and traceability in the value chain.”
Jean Henin, CEO of Pellenc ST, remarked: “Open standards are critical to implement Digital Product Passports. By partnering with Polytag, we are equipping recycling facilities with innovative tools to optimize sorting processes and enhance material recovery.”
Pellenc ST and Polytag have developed and validated a sorting prototype at the Pellenc ST Innovation Centre to TRL 7. Furthermore, Pellenc ST plans to manufacture UV reader modules.
This collaboration will significantly accelerate the transition towards circularity in food and beverage packaging and enhance product traceability, supporting the implementation of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).