# Blockchain-based Traceability in Recycling

> Veolia utilizes blockchain technology to monitor the origin and purity of post-consumer plastics throughout the entire recycling chain. The system combines blockchain with RFID tags to track each batch from collection to processing into granules. The project is in the pilot phase and aims to create transparent material traceability and build trust in the authenticity and quality of recyclates.

**Sector:** Tertiary sector · **Industry:** Waste management and recycling · **Organisation:** Veolia · **Maturity level:** Pilot

Canonical URL: https://www.sapientblock.com/en/use-cases/veolia-wertstoffe-lueckenlos-zurueckverfolgen

## Documentation status

- **Project status:** Pilot
- **Evidence:** Evidence medium
- **Editorial review:** Ufuk Avci, 15 April 2026

## Description

Veolia uses blockchain combined with RFID tags to track post-consumer plastics seamlessly from collection to processing into granulate. The pilot project in Germany shows how each batch is linked to an RFID tag whose transactions are recorded on the blockchain. This prevents substitution of recyclates with new material and makes recycled content quotas quantitatively verifiable.

Veolia, the global benchmark for optimised resource management (2022: €42.9 billion turnover, 220,000 employees, 61 million tonnes of waste processed), has integrated blockchain into the recycling process for post-consumer plastics. The system combines RFID tags with blockchain: each batch receives an RFID tag documenting collection, sorting and processing. All transactions are recorded on the blockchain — immutable and transparent. A pilot project in Germany demonstrated practical feasibility. The blockchain traceability serves several purposes: (1) Authentication — proof that recyclates really come from post-consumer waste and have not been substituted with new material. (2) Regulation — compliance with EU requirements for recycled content quotas can be proven and certified in real time. (3) Customer certificates — customers receive blockchain-secured certificates for the recycled content of their materials.

## Benefits

- Companies can achieve higher prices for quality-assured recyclates and realise competitive advantages through sustainability credentials.
- Blockchain technology creates complete transparency about the origin and quality of recycled materials.
- Immutable documentation increases trust in recycling processes and products.
- Seamless traceability supports the development of a genuine circular economy.
- Employees receive precise digital tools to document their work and can contribute to the company’s sustainability.

## Challenges

- Companies must fundamentally adapt existing recycling processes and invest in new technologies.
- Integrating various technologies such as blockchain and RFID requires high technical expertise and investment.
- Acceptance and active use by all participants in the recycling chain is critical for success.
- Employees must be extensively trained and get used to more precise, data-driven work processes.

## Technology foundation

The system uses blockchain technology for the immutable storage of data regarding the origin and processing steps of plastic waste. The blockchain is combined with RFID tags attached to each batch, which automatically record data on collection, transport, and processing.

## Sources

- [Mit der Blockchain-Technologie Nachhaltigkeit von Verpackungen transparent machen](https://www.interpack.de/de/Media_News/interpack_Magazin/Globale_M%C3%A4rkte_Trends/News_Globale_M%C3%A4rkte_Trends/Mit_der_Blockchain-Technologie_Nachhaltigkeit_von_Verpackungen_transparent_machen)
- [Veolia startet 95-Millionen-Dollar-Projekt zum Kunststoffrecycling in Großbritannien](https://de.marketscreener.com/kurs/aktie/VEOLIA-ENVIRONNEMENT-4726/news/Veolia-startet-95-Millionen-Dollar-Projekt-zum-Kunststoffrecycling-in-Gro-britannien-50469197/)