Polytag, a leader in technology solutions for sustainable packaging, has announced the installation of its innovative Plastic Detection Unit at the Re-Gen Material Recovery Facility (MRF) in Newry, Northern Ireland. This significant move expands Polytag’s network to encompass one of the UK’s largest MRFs, aimed at enhancing recycling processes across the country.
Re-Gen’s facility, the second largest of its kind in the UK, is capable of processing 250,000 tonnes of commingled household waste each year. In addition to managing a substantial portion of Northern Ireland’s waste, it also accepts materials from England, Scotland, Wales, and the Republic of Ireland. The installation of Polytag’s Plastic Detection Unit at this site is a vital component of the company’s Ecotrace Programme, which seeks to deploy these units across 12 MRFs to manage 50% of the UK’s household recycling waste stream.
Once operational, the Plastic Detection Unit will allow for precise counting of individual packaging items during the recycling process. Brands utilising Polytag’s Invisible Watermarks will be able to access vital data regarding the lifecycle of their products. These watermarks, which are invisible to the naked eye, can be easily detected by the units using ultraviolet (UV) lights. The real-time data generated will provide actionable insights, helping companies set meaningful internal Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) targets and meet regulatory requirements, such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and Digital Waste Tracking.
Alice Rackley, CEO of Polytag, stated, “Our partnership with Re-Gen marks a significant milestone in optimising recycling processes across the UK. The Newry facility is a key site in this mission.” She highlighted the importance of the installation for large-scale waste management, asserting, “What can be measured can be managed, and our technology enables precise tracking, tracing, and detection of materials, which is essential for achieving a circular economy.”
Joseph Doherty, Chief Executive at Re-Gen, expressed pride in the collaboration, noting, “We are constantly investing in advanced technology to improve our processes and remain leaders in the recycling industry.” He emphasised that embracing such innovations is critical for enhancing recycling efficiency and gaining valuable insights into packaging lifecycles.
The installation at Re-Gen comes on the heels of Polytag’s recognition at the 2024 RTIH Innovation Awards, where the company was celebrated for its contributions to tech innovation in the retail sector. The awards ceremony, held at RIBA’s prestigious venue in London, acknowledged Polytag’s role in advancing technology that impacts everyday operations in the industry.
In summary, the installation of Polytag’s Plastic Detection Unit at Re-Gen’s MRF represents a major step forward in recycling technology. By enabling more accurate tracking of packaging waste, this initiative aims to improve recycling rates and support the transition towards a more sustainable circular economy in the UK. As Polytag continues to roll out its Ecotrace Programme, it is set to revolutionise how stakeholders interact with the recycling ecosystem, unlocking valuable insights and driving innovation for a greener future.
