RFID labels – effective identification of bags and containers in the waste sorting and collection process
Effective waste management is an organizational, environmental, and technological challenge. In response to these needs, more and more municipalities and municipal operators are turning to RFID-based solutions. RFID labels for waste become digital identifiers for containers, bins, and bags. They enable process automation, control, and improved accounting of activities.
RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) enables contactless reading and writing of data using radio waves. RFID tags can operate in different bands:
- HF (13.56 MHz) – for close-range reading (e.g., even a smartphone, applies to NFC technology),
- UHF (860–960 MHz) – enabling reading from several meters away (e.g., readers in garbage trucks),
- HF/UHF – dual-band tags combining both applications.
How RFID tags work in practice in municipal services
- Waste bins
Each container (e.g., 120 L, 240 L, 1100 L) is equipped with an RFID tag (label or so-called hard tag) placed on the outside of the container. This makes it possible to:
- identify the owner of the container,
- record the time of collection,
- check the number of empties,
- assign the weight of the waste (in systems with scales).
RFID technology – facts and myths. Do you know them? Read on!
2. Waste bags
Disposable RFID labels are affixed to bags containing selectively collected waste. They are used for:
- tracking the origin of waste,
- documenting transfer and collection,
- verifying compliance with segregation requirements,
- billing users according to quantity.
3. Containers
Due to their design and dimensions, containers for bulky waste or rubble are usually equipped with active RFID tags. This allows for reading from longer distances, and metal is not a problem as it is in the case of passive RFID tags. Marking containers with RFID tags enables:
- identify the container,
- control unloading,
- determine the location of a given container,
- easily inventory containers.
- Automation of the collection process
Garbage trucks equipped with RFID readers automatically read the container ID when it is lifted. These systems can work with scales, GPS systems, and management software to create a complete digital trail of the process.
- Inventory and service
RFID tags enable quick inventory of resources and recording of container repairs. They also facilitate the assignment of containers to specific locations and users.
What requirements must RFID labels applied to containers, bags, or bins meet?
RFID labels in waste management must be:
- resistant to weather conditions: water, frost, UV radiation, etc.
- legible for many years of use,
- difficult to copy and safe to use.
- The key to success is choosing the right adhesive for the material from which the waste container is made. In this case, when manufacturing RFID labels, we draw on our many years of experience as a manufacturer of adhesive elements based on adhesive film or double-sided adhesive tape.
As a manufacturer of RFID labels, we approach each project individually and select a tailor-made solution. We are able to produce labels using various surface materials and adhesive tapes, as well as RFID tags from reputable suppliers. Our portfolio of labels for waste management systems includes labels with two RFID tags that operate in the HF and UHF bands.
Summary
RFID transforms waste management into a data-driven system. It enables fair billing, improves service quality, and engages residents in achieving environmental standards related to selective waste collection. HF/UHF tags, especially in the form of labels on containers and bags, are becoming the foundation of digital municipal systems and part of the “smart city” strategy.
We will help you identify waste using RFID!
