M&S joins forces with Polytag to drive packaging recycling in the UK

M&S has partnered with Polytag to pioneer the Polytag Ecotrace Programme, aimed at revolutionising the tracing and recycling of single-use plastic packaging in the UK.

The initiative utilises Polytag's innovative UV tag detection technology, strategically placed in recycling centres nationwide. By joining this programme, M&S gains invaluable real-time insights into the collection and sorting of its single-use plastic packaging, helping to benchmark and improve recycling rates.

Polytag invites FMCG brands, retailers, and waste management companies to participate, unlocking detailed data on over 50% of the UK's household waste recycling stream.

Together, they are building a sustainable future through enhanced recycling practices.

Alice Rackley, CEO of Polytag, said: Currently, FMCG brands have no visibility of what happens to its single-use plastic once it has been put in the bin. As Extended Producer Responsibility legislation comes into force, brands will need to take responsibility for packaging materials.