Espoo, 30 September 2025 –
Veolia’s sorting facility in Ochtendung, Germany, is harnessing RFID technology to track packaging in real-world conditions. For the first time, the system delivers precise data on which packages actually make it into recycling – and which do not.
Making the real challenges of sorting visible
The Ochtendung facility processes 90,000 tonnes of plastic every year. Test packages equipped with RFID tags travel through the conveyor line as usual, monitored by nine readers across 36 inspection points. Every movement is recorded and compiled into a report. The results reveal exactly where packages may be misdirected into the wrong stream – preventing their use in recycled plastic production.
“Recycling is impossible without correctly sorted materials. RFID supports the entire process,” says David Wardle, Packaging Engineer at CIRCPACK by Veolia.
A new tool for packaging design
The system enables rapid and repeatable testing, giving packaging developers a completely new way to evaluate designs. By identifying where issues occur on the line, it creates a powerful feedback loop between sorting operations and packaging innovation.
Driving circular economy goals
When packages can be tested and optimized before reaching the market, more of them will end up in the correct recycling streams and into recycled plastic production. RFID technology therefore supports both brand sustainability commitments and the EU’s tightening recycling targets.
The picture on the left showcases the test packaging moving through the waste stream.
A model of Collaboration
What has been realized at CIRCPACK by Veolia shows how shared expertise and purpose can unlock new possibilities. Avery Dennison’s long-standing leadership in materials science and RFID innovation, paired with Turck Vilant Systems’ integration know-how, ensures the technology performs in complex industrial settings. The result is a clear example of innovation through partnership.
Have a look
Filmed at Veolia’s Ochtendung sorting facility, this video brings the RFID use case to life and demonstrates its impact in practice.
Video: https://turckvilant.com/veolia-video
Pictures for download: https://turckvilant.com/pr-kuvat
Text in PDF format: https://turckvilant.com/pr
Embedding the video on your website: request link by email: marketing@turckvilant.com
Press Contact
Jessica Säilä
Head of Marketing
Phone: +358 40 537 8360
Email: jessica.saila@turckvilant.com
Further Reading
case
RFID in Waste Sorting
Veolia’s plastics sorting facility uses RFID to test new packaging designs in real waste streams. The results give brand owners data-driven insights to redesign packaging for better recyclability and compliance with EU rules.
article
The waste we do not see
Avery Dennison and Turck Vilant Systems discuss waste sorting further, by asking if RFID can help unlock intelligent recycling at scale building on the Circpack by Veolia.