Recyclable solution for packaging authentication

ECOT by Finnish company Stora Enso is a new, sustainable RFID (radio frequency identification) tag technology designed for intelligent packaging functionalities in supply chain, retail and e-commerce applications. The technology enables paper-based RFID tags, providing a plastic-free and recyclable solution for packaging authentication.

RFID technology allows packaged products to be automatically tracked, traced and tamper-proofed throughout the entire supply chain. The wireless technology can be used for the transfer of data that are electronically stored on tags attached to a package. The technology can identify several hundred items in sub-second speed and without line-of-sight interaction. Moreover, it allows communication between the brand owner and the end user by use of a near field communication enabled smartphone.

Now Stora Enso’s ECO technology enables the RFID tags to be produced on a 100% fibre-based paper label, unlike traditional plastic tags, resulting in a lower carbon footprint for sustainability-conscious B2B and B2C companies.

ECO technology offers a recyclable and plastic layer-free option for RFID end users, thus enabling a digital and sustainable packaging infrastructure.

By integrating the RFID tag with a paper label, the manufacturing process becomes more scalable and, as result, also more cost-effective — all without compromising on performance and reliability. The ECO tag can be recycled in an environmentally friendly way together with paper and board materials. Moreover, it offers high conductivity at a lower cost compared with graphene or silver printed antennas. The ECO technology is available for use in multiple ongoing projects across multiple sectors.