In this week’s episode of the Rubbish Talk Podcast, we have the pleasure of speaking with Alice Rackley, CEO of Polytag. Alice is at the forefront of digital transformation in the recycling and packaging industries, leading Polytag to make significant strides in connected packaging solutions and circularity for packaging.
Polytag, co-founded by Alice alongside Phil Sutton and Brendan O’Neill, specialises in integrating digital technology into the supply chain to support better recycling habits and data collection. Their innovations have already caught the attention of major brands, including Ocado, Marks & Spencer’s, and Waitrose.
Alice explains how Polytag’s two main tag solutions are reshaping the industry. First, they offer a QR code solution powered by GS1, the global barcode standards agency. These enhanced QR codes allow brands to include more detailed information on packaging, offering a glimpse into the future of supply chains. Expected to replace traditional barcodes by 2027, these QR codes not only help manage product recalls and prevent outdated items from reaching the shelves but also connect consumers directly with packaging for a seamless digital experience.
But that’s not all – Polytag has also pioneered Invisible UV tags, which are applied to plastic packaging and can only be detected at recycling centres. This ground breaking technology allows brands to track their packaging through the entire recycling process, offering third-party verified data to confirm whether their products are actually being recycled. This is vital data for brands, especially as legislation around recycling and circularity intensifies.
Polytag’s systems are already inaction at recycling centres across the UK through the Eco Trace program, which aims to enable 12 sites by July 2025. This will cover 50% of plastic collected from kerbside domestic recycling, within the 12 sites, a monumental step towards closing the loop on recycling data.
While Alice acknowledges that Polytag’s UV tags aren’t the only solution for recycling challenges, she sees them as a valuable part of a wider digital transformation in the recycling sector. The technology complements other innovations like AI and image recognition systems, creating amore efficient and accurate recycling process.
Reflecting on her own journey, Alice shared insights into her transition from the digital retail sector to the recycling industry. She sees a digital transformation on the horizon for recycling, much like what retail has been through in the past 15 years. And though recycling centres are chaotic and less automated compared to manufacturing facilities, Alice is optimistic that the industry is primed for change.
When asked about advice for the next generation, Alice encouraged staying curious, asking questions, and being open to moving across sectors. She pointed out that the recycling space, while lagging behind in innovation compared to other sectors, offers massive potential for those excited by transformation. The industry is ready for fresh solutions, and as Alice predicts, the changes we’ll see in recycling over the next decade will be truly remarkable.
If you’re as inspired by Alice’s journey and Polytag’s work as we are, you won’t want to miss this episode. Tune in to hear about the future of connected packaging, the impact of digital solutions in recycling, and the exciting changes ahead for the industry.
Useful Links 🔗
Ocado ‘Rewards for Recycling’ Programme
Environmental News Updates 🌍
Hutton Hunts for Soil Ambassadors Across Scotland
Jane and Alasdair highlight the James Hutton Institute’s exciting initiative to recruit soil ambassadors across Scotland. Their nationwide soil sampling campaign aims to collect 16,500 samples, providing valuable insights for agricultural research. While Jane found the process of taking samples intriguing, Alasdair pointed out that the training provided to ambassadors would ensure they know exactly how to handle the soil collection. If you’re keen to get involved in this citizen science project, check out the link to become an ambassador and “dig for Britain!” says Jane.
Millions of UK Tyres Sent to Furnaces in India
In this troubling news, Alasdair shares an eye-opening report about millions of UK tyres, originally meant for recycling, being sent to furnaces in India instead. This practice is against international laws and raises serious concerns about the lack of proper recycling infrastructure in the UK. Jane also pointed out the limited facilities available for tyre recycling, a problem Alasdair has long been frustrated with. They both agreed that the tyre recycling issue remains a huge challenge, with manufacturers needing to take more responsibility.
Plastic Recycling in Europe Faces Major Setbacks
Jane and Alasdair dive into the latest report from Plastics Recyclers Europe, which warns that Europe’s plastic recycling capacity is at a standstill due to a decline in domestic production and increased imports. Jane observed that the cost of recycling is becoming prohibitive, making virgin materials more appealing. Alasdair added that only the highest-quality materials are currently being recycled, while less desirable plastics, like films, struggle to find a market. It’s a tough time for plastic recycling, but both agree that the sector needs a major overhaul in infrastructure and investment.
Birmingham Bin Strikes: Waste Workers Demand Fair Pay
Alasdair and Jane discuss the ongoing bin strikes in Birmingham, which have left residents frustrated by the lack of waste collection. Alasdair highlighted the complexity behind the dispute, which stems from gender pay inequality among the refuse collection workers. Jane expressed sympathy for the waste workers and noted how easy it is to take bin collection for granted, especially when it stops. The situation raises important questions about fair pay and workers’ rights in the waste management sector.
Albion News
Toxic Town: The Legacy of Contaminated Sites
Alasdair shares his thoughts on the BBC’s Toxic Town documentary, which investigates the contaminated land in Corby and its tragic health impacts on the local community. The documentary highlights the only proven case in the world linking airborne pollutants from contaminated sites to birth defects. Jane was shocked by the story, while Alasdair was captivated by the complex legal battle surrounding it. The conversation is a stark reminder of the lasting effects of environmental contamination and the need for stricter regulations on waste management and land reclamation.
Get in Touch with Us: Share Your Ideas for Future Episodes
As always, Jane and Alasdair encourage listeners to share ideas for future podcast topics and guests. We may take some time to get to every request, but we always welcome listener feedback. Whether it’s an interesting article, a new industry trend, or a guest suggestion, we are eager to hear from our Rubbish Talk listeners. If you’ve got something on your mind, don’t hesitate to get in touch at hello@rubbishtalk.co.uk
Rubbish Talk on TikTok!
We’re now posting Rubbish Talk clips with visuals on our existing TikTok page, as well as on LinkedIn and Facebook! Previously, we were audio-only, but with these short clips, you can now watch the discussions along with the audio. Be sure to like, share and follow us for all the latest updates and insights from the podcast!
Rubbish Talk’s Growing Global Audience!
In a delightful surprise, Rubbish Talk now has 59 international listeners, with one particularly curious listener from Vanuatu! Jane and Alasdair joke about the mysterious Vanuatu connection and encourage listeners from around the globe to reach out and introduce themselves. With 90% of their audience still based in the UK, they’re thrilled to see Rubbish Talk reaching far and wide. If you’re listening from outside the UK, especially if you’re from Vanuatu, get in touch—we would love to hear from you! Email us at: hello@rubbishtalk.co.uk
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Rubbish Talk Strava Club: The Challenge Continues
The Rubbish Talk Strava challenge is picking up momentum! This month’s challenge is at least 25 minutes of activity for 25 days.
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We would love feedback from our listeners!
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📅 Thursday 17th April 2025
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📅 Wednesday 7th May – Wednesday 14th May 2025
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