As the UK’s Extended Producer Responsibility legislation comes into force, the need for robust, data-led solutions has never been greater. Polytag’s Ecotrace Programme provides real-time, data-driven insights into packaging lifecycles, enabling brands to move beyond sustainability claims to a measurable impact.
Ecosurety’s support of this programme reflects a shared commitment to accelerating packaging transparency and circularity. By financially contributing to the development of this technology, Ecosurety is enabling the development of a technology that could give producers access to powerful, real-world data, to inform better decisions and achieve genuine progress in reducing waste.
Polytag’s UV tag detection system allows brands to identify and quantify how much of their packaging is actually recycled – providing, for the first time, a clear audit trail. This shift from assumptions to evidence supports fairer EPR-related fees. It also fosters constructive, data-driven discussions with the government on how those fees are structured.
The Ecotrace Programme is being embraced by forward-thinking brands and retailers committed to building credible, evidence-based EPR strategies. Polytag and Ecosurety share a vision for a future where packaging traceability is not just a compliance tool, but a catalyst for environmental leadership.
Alice Rackley, CEO, Polytag, commented, “As businesses understand more about their duties toward EPR laws, we’re able to close the value gap. We’ve found our best clients aren’t just achieving compliance – they’re using packaging traceability as a competitive advantage, demonstrating genuine environmental impact to their increasingly savvy investors and customers. Today they’re pioneers. Tomorrow they must be one of many.”
“Ecosurety is showing true leadership by supporting initiatives that deliver tangible impact. They are helping brands move from guessing to knowing when it comes to post-consumer packaging data, which is exactly what’s needed to achieve real change.”
Jon Brookes, Partnerships Director, Ecosurety, added, “Our goal has always been to empower our members to go beyond minimum requirements and eliminate unnecessary packaging. The Ecotrace Programme offers a breakthrough in data transparency, enabling businesses to turn ambition into measurable impact. It’s a vital step toward closing the value gap and transforming compliance into meaningful environmental leadership. We’re excited to support Polytag as they scale this innovation.”
