FINLAND – Metsä Board, a leading European producer of premium fresh fibre paperboards, has introduced QR codes on its delivery packaging to streamline the recycling process for customers.
These QR codes, now featured on pallet and reel labels, provide direct access to detailed information about the materials used in Metsä Board’s packaging.
When scanned, the codes guide customers to an app that offers insights on proper recycling methods for each packaging component.
By simplifying recycling, Metsä Board aims to reduce waste sent to landfills and promote more efficient resource management.
The initiative underscores the company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in the packaging industry.
Metsä Board’s Product Safety Specialist, Isto Hongisto, highlighted the importance of customer convenience, “The implementation of the new recycling QR codes on our paperboard deliveries stems from a strong commitment to sustainability and customer convenience.
“Recycling can sometimes be complex, and our goal is to make it as seamless and straightforward as possible for our customers.”
Since this month, all Metsä Board product deliveries feature these QR codes, reinforcing the company’s focus on enhancing user experience while promoting eco-friendly practices.
Industry-wide adoption of QR codes
Metsä Board’s initiative reflects a broader industry trend toward integrating QR codes for better recycling guidance.
Danone recently announced its participation in the How2Recycle Plus program, introducing QR codes on select Silk brand products by the end of the year.
Consumers can scan these on-pack codes to access real-time, location-specific recycling information based on their zip codes.
Sam Harrington, Danone North America’s Director of Packaging Sustainability, emphasized the importance of dynamic recycling information, “Static labels attempt to put a one-size-fits-all message about recyclability, but due to our varied and evolving recycling system, this messaging will be incorrect for a portion of consumers.”
Consumer confusion is common with more than 9,000 recycling programs across the United States.
The How2Recycle Plus platform, leveraging The Recycling Partnership’s National Recycling Database, offers clear, up-to-date answers on what can and cannot be recycled.
Harrington believes this will help rebuild consumer trust and encourage proper disposal practices.
This dynamic approach addresses the challenge of changing recycling guidelines. For example, while many beverage cartons are widely considered recyclable, a significant portion of Americans still lack access to facilities that accept them.
The platform ensures consumers receive accurate information, enhancing their ability to participate in sustainable practices.
Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.
Be the first to leave a comment