New space for innovation: Interzero Plastics Innovations celebrates move to new state-of-the-art laboratories and offices
Innovation requires space - not only intellectual freedom to come up with new ideas and ask the right questions, but also practical space. With new laboratory and office facilities in Lenart, Slovenia, the competence centre Interzero Plastics Innovations creates the optimum conditions to further expand its leadership role in the field of the circular economy. This step represents an important milestone on the way to realising the vision of a world without waste.
Innovation requires space - not only intellectual freedom to come up with new ideas and ask the right questions, but also practical space. With new laboratory and office facilities in Lenart, Slovenia, the competence centre Interzero Plastics Innovations creates the optimum conditions to further expand its leadership role in the field of the circular economy. This step represents an important milestone on the way to realising the vision of a world without waste.
The grand opening of the new location was attended by senior guests from the worlds of politics, business and media. Among them were, in addition to Interzero CEO Dr. Axel Schweitzer, the President of the Republic of Slovenia Dr. Nataša Pirc Musar and the German Ambassador Sylvia Groneick, who emphasised the importance of Interzero's innovative work for a sustainable future.
With the opening of the new facilities, Interzero is once again underlining its commitment to driving the transition to a circular economy through pioneering technologies and sustainable solutions.
Read the press release in English HERE
Global Week of Action for Sustainable Development Goals
The 2030 Agenda and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals
In 2015, all 193 UN member states unanimously adopted the General Assembly Resolution establishing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This Agenda sets out 17 goals and 169 targets to be achieved by 2030. To commemorate the adoption of the Resolution, 25 September each year is the World Day of Action for the Sustainable Development Goals, which is the culmination of the entire World Action Week.
You can read more about the strategy and objectives in the article: What is sustainability?
Appropriate, globally used indicators are used to monitor progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Each country designates its own institution to track the status of the goals and targets. In Poland, the Central Statistical Office is such an institution, and our country's path towards meeting Agenda 2030 can be seen in the report Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals in Poland of 2023.
Find out how we work for sustainable development
At Interzero, we are well aware that the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals is not only the responsibility of states, governments and local authorities, but also of each and every one of us. A special responsibility, however, lies with business representatives, who should show responsibility for their actions and support the formation of planet-beneficial, sustainable habits in society.
As an environmental industry leader and provider of integrated environmental services, every day we do our utmost to support our customers in the responsible development of their businesses and together with them work towards the common goal of a world without waste. So we are creating more services, providing tools and solutions that we effectively close raw material cycles, protecting natural resources and benefiting the environment, the economy and society as a whole.
Objective 4 - good quality education
We create educational campaigns, we support local environmental events and we provide teaching materialsthrough which we increase the knowledge of sustainability in both children and adults. Our Environmental Education Team uses a variety of communication tools, to reach the widest possible audience and encourage, inspire and engage in action to change habits to more sustainable ones and transform society for the better.
Explore Interzero education campaigns!
Objective 9 - innovation, industry and infrastructure
With intuitive online tools bringing the waste industry into the digital age and we simplify waste management for every company. Our digital Interzero waste platform supports businesses in meeting their legal waste management obligations, helps to manage waste streams and optimise not only waste logistics, but also costs. It enables business representatives, including small and medium-sized enterprises, to focus on further growth and increase investment, while ensuring the safe transport and proper management of the waste generated industrial.
Objective 11 - Sustainable cities and communities
We supply modern machines to support municipal waste management in cities and beyond. Our PEL BriteBin solar baskets increase waste collection efficiency while reducing CO2 emissions. They are powered by clean, readily available solar energy, giving them zero running costs. The built-in baler reduces the volume of waste by up to 90%, reducing collection frequency. By supplying our solar bins we help municipal companies, property managers and building owners to create a friendly, sustainable urban space.
Objective 12 - responsible consumption and production
We aim to reduce the amount of waste generated and we support entrepreneurs in creating sustainable consumption and production patterns. To this end, we have created the Made4Loop and Made4Circle services, whose common denominator is a continuous reduction in the waste of natural resources and a drive to reuse raw materials.
Made4Loop service we implement a closed loop system of reusable packaging in catering companies for meals and beverages. Created according to the needs of our customers, the packaging is given back to the consumer against a deposit and then returned, handed over for washing and disinfection and reused up to dozens of times.
Made4Circle, on the other hand, is a packaging eco-design service, during which we advise our customers and we take an active part in the development of sustainable, recyclable packaging for their products.
You can read more about sustainability at Interzero in our the latest Sustainability magazine.
Interzero at POLECO 2024: innovation, ecology and sustainability - get ready for a great event!
The POLECO 2024 International Trade Fair for Environmental Protection, to be held on 15-17 October at the Poznan International Fair grounds, is fast approaching. This year's edition promises to be one of the most important events in the field of ecology, sustainability and environmental technology innovation! We are proud that Interzero will have the opportunity to present its innovative solutions in the field of circular economy. You can find us in pavilion number 5 at stand 59!
POLECO - the key event in the environmental industry
The POLECO trade fair is not only a platform for exchanging knowledge, but also a space for establishing cooperation between companies, institutions and organisations in the environmental sector. By participating in events such as POLECO, Interzero is consolidating its position as a leader in the circular economy industry. At the same time, we are building a network and being inspired by the activities of other companies - to make our services even better.
We are feeling first-hand how climate change is becoming more and more visible. The role of events such as POLECO becomes particularly important. This is where innovators, scientists and entrepreneurs come together to share ideas, exchange experiences and work on technologies that can influence the future of our planet.
Interzero experts on site - what can you find out?
It has not been known for a long time that Interzero is committed to education. At POLECO, we send first-class experts who are not afraid of any question. We want trade fair participants to learn as much as possible about the specifications of our services and products. We are also happy to share our educational achievements with you. Zero waste, recycling or the bail system are just a few of the topics you can discuss with us. Perhaps you would be interested in courses or training? We can tell you about them, but nothing compares to the knowledge you can gain from us! We would be happy to talk about our innovative projects, such as Waste platformwhich enables you to optimise your waste management processes. Whether you are an entrepreneur who wants to optimise recycling processes in your company or someone interested in ecology and sustainability - there is a place for everyone with us!
Interzero - what will we present at POLECO?
At POLECO 2024, Interzero will focus on its reliable environmental solutions that support the development of deposit systems and the wider closed-loop economy. We are providing the opportunity to learn about eco-friendly equipment that is central to modern recycling strategies. One of the main products that Interzero will be showcasing are innovative Bottle machines, devices that allow the return of plastic packaging, as part of a deposit system. Remember that these bottle machines will only be the tip of the iceberg - the our solutions is an advanced technology that has a real impact on improving the ecological state of Polish businesses.
Meet us at POLECO!
You should not miss POLECO 2024! This is a unique opportunity to see with your own eyes what the future of sustainable waste management and environmental protection looks like. Interzero is checking in!
We look forward to seeing you in pavilion 5, booth 59. See you in Poznan - together we create the future in the spirit of ecology and sustainability - ready?
In anticipation of POLECO, see our post on deposit system - Can Poland afford it?
Invitation to Webinar: "Preparing for an Environmental Inspectorate inspection - what do you need to know?"
Is your business ready for an inspection by the Environmental Inspectorate? If you have any doubts or want to make sure everything is in order, come along to our upcoming webinar pt. "Preparing for an Environmental Inspectorate inspection - what do you need to know?".
Why attend a webinar?
Environmental Inspectorate inspections can be stressful and complicated, but proper preparation can make the process much easier. During the webinar you will learn:
- Environmental Protection Inspectorate - purpose of establishment, organisational structure
- Who is subject to inspection, types of inspection
- Inspection tasks
- Powers of Environmental Inspectors and cooperation with other public administration bodies
- Aspects of control based on the provisions of the Entrepreneurs Act
- What to expect during an inspection
- Q&A session
The webinar will be hosted by Łukasz Pachucki, Senior Environmental Specialist at Interzero.
Who should take part?
The webinar is aimed at:
- Entrepreneurs and managers responsible for environmental management in companies.
- Environmental specialists.
- Anyone interested in the topic of environmental compliance.
How to register?
To attend the webinar, simply register at HERE.
Join us on 24 October and be ready for any Environmental Inspectorate inspection!
Back to school with Interzero - environmental education with EcoPakka in a new guise
Did you know that Interzero is not only consulting, audits and environmental services? As part of our business and environmental activities, we also implement public education campaigns for the youngest and those a little older. These enable us to share our ecological knowledge and encourage a change to more sustainable habits.
Together with our customers, we are building public environmental awareness
Conducting public education campaigns is the responsibility of businesses introducing various products and packaged products. They are part of extended producer responsibility - they aim to raising environmental awareness in society as a whole.
As sustainability pioneers, we are happy to take on this responsibility from our clients, in return offering professional and reliable implementation of campaigns targeting different audiences. Campaigns implemented by the Interzero Environmental Education Team not only support the introduction of eco habits. Thanks to the funding of PKE, our clients gain the opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to environmental and social issues.
Entrust the running of public education campaigns to Interzero!
Does your company have an obligation to run public education campaigns? We would be happy to we will carry them out on your behalf and, in addition, take over your recovery and recycling obligation! Complete our quiz and find out the best offer for your company!
Ecological teaching materials EcoPaks are recommended for ecology lessons in school and kindergarten
At Interzero, we know the importance of sound environmental education and building environmental awareness from an early age. Our public education campaign EcoPak is support for school and kindergarten teachers, eco-educators and parents. Its beneficiaries are children - from toddlers to primary school pupils. With them in mind, we have prepared a collection of original, professionally developed teaching aids:
- colouring books,
- worksheets,
- lesson plans,
- leaflets and brochures.
You will find all materials for environmental education under the download tab on the new, refreshed EkoPaki website. Colouring books and worksheets can be used both in the classroom and at home, for your own work.
Before the first bell rings, take a look at EkoPak teaching aids and plan interesting activities where children can discover the world of materials, raw materials and recycling on their own. The first excellent opportunity for a dose of ecological knowledge is on 15 September, on Packaging Day!
Enrol your school or kindergarten in the EcoPak Paper programme!
EcoPak is not only free printable material about ecology, but also a programme for pre-schools and schools in which the youngest learn about the different raw materials and the packaging they are made of. On 19 August, enrolment began for the next edition of EkoPaki - Papier, addressed to pre-schools and primary school grades 1-3 from Warsaw and neighbouring counties. As part of this campaign, children will learn about the history, production process and uses of paper, as well as how to recycle it correctly. Each class or group will receive a set of teaching, art and creative materialsmaking learning fun!
Enrol your school or pre-school in the EcoPak Paper programme - the number of free material kits is limited!
Promotion of Agata Ryś to the Management Board of Interzero
Promotion of Agata Ryś to the Management Board of Interzero
We are pleased to announce the promotion of Agata Rys to the position of Member of the Management Board of Interzero, which took place in September 2024. Agata Ryś, an experienced sales and environmental professional with over 20 years' experience in the industry, has spent the last five years in the role of Commercial Director at Interzero. During this time, she successfully managed the sales team and developed commercial strategies, contributing to the dynamic growth of the company.
"I am extremely grateful for the trust the company has placed in me by entrusting me with the role of Board Member. It is a great honour and motivation for me to continue working towards our mutual success. As a Board Member, my priority will be to further strengthen relationships with our customers. I plan to introduce a more personalised approach to customer service to better respond to their needs and expectations. I will emphasise modern tools and technologies that will enable us to communicate faster and more effectively. I believe that through these actions we will build even stronger and more lasting relationships with our customers, which will contribute to the further development of our company. I would like to thank the entire team for their support and cooperation - together we can achieve even more!" - she said Agata Ryś.
We congratulate Agata Ryś on her promotion and wish her continued success in her new role!
We are launching the "Recharge your batteries" campaign
We are launching the "Recharge your batteries" campaign
When we take care of the environment, do we also take care of ourselves? Our 'Charge Your Batteries' social campaign aims to show that wellbeing and ecology are inextricably linked. World Wellbeing Day and Battery Recycling Day, celebrated respectively 8 and 9 September, is an excellent opportunity to highlight how environmental care and mental health can support each other.
Conclusions of the report "Between plus and minus"
Our report, published in February 2024, reveals that young adults aged 18-35 are less likely to separate waste and more likely to doubt the point of recycling. As many as 31% of 18-24 year olds believe that batteries cannot be recycled. Furthermore, the younger generation is less knowledgeable about the proper disposal of used batteries than older generations.
We wanted our activities to arouse the interest of young adults, so we linked the topic of batteries, understood as a source of power for a variety of equipment, with our internal batteries, i.e. with mental wellbeing, which is particularly important these days. In our social campaign "Charge your batteries", we want to support recipients in building environmental awareness, showing that by doing something good for the planet, we are also doing something good for ourselves - explains Monika Grom, Vice President of Interzero
How can living in harmony with nature improve mental health? About ecopsychology
Ecopsychology, a strand combining ecology and psychology, shows that contact with nature significantly improves our wellbeing, reduces stress levels and increases happiness. Pro-environmental actions and psychological wellbeing are connected vessels - knowing that we are contributing to the protection of the environment gives us a sense of agency, control and meaning, which translates into better wellbeing.
Over the past few years, there has clearly been an increased interest in the topic of building health from a holistic perspective. We understand that everything both inside and outside of us is interconnected and influences each other. Following this line, one of the basic pillars of health becomes regular contact with nature. This, among others, is what ecopsychology, a science that is gaining increasing interest, deals with. Thanks to it, we increasingly appreciate the beneficial influence of nature on our mental condition, we are even more willing to benefit from its soothing properties, and regular contact with it allows us to relax more deeply and rebuild our inner resources. - says Orina Krajewska, President of the Board of Directors of the Malgosia Braunek Be Foundation, substantive partner of the campaign
How to take part in the campaign?
Campaign "Recharge your batteries" aims to encourage young adults to take up battery recycling and to show that ecology and mental wellbeing are closely linked.
We have teamed up with the Margaret Braunek Be Foundation for a series of four free webinars to help you find harmony between mental health and caring for the planet. The meetings require no registration - just join us.
- 12 September '100% batteries. A conversation about ecopsychology - A new trend combining psychology and ecology in the service of the inner balance of modern man", by Orina Krajewska and Dr Julia E. Wahl.
- 3 October "On the benefits of forest bathing, how to recharge your own batteries on a daily basis on the green?"., Katarzyna Grabka.
- 23 October "Relieve tension - somatic practices to regulate stress and soothe the nervous system. What does the science say about the effectiveness and benefits of using Somatic Experiencing® techniques and how to practice for yourself?", Sandra Kłos.
- 21 November "Recharge your body - about a diet that nourishes the body and the planet"., Dr. med. Alicja Baska.
Get an individual code for a monthly subscription to the app Mindy Premium, our digital partner. To take part, post on your social media (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok) a photo or video of you properly disposing of your used batteries using the hashtag #naladd your batteries. Enjoy peace of mind and body with Mindy for a whole month!
About the social campaign "Recharge your batteries"
The 'Recharge Your Batteries' public awareness campaign runs from 8 September to the end of November 2024.
More about the campaign: Recharge your batteries - Eko Bez Kantówow (ekobezkantow.pl)
Spot promoting the campaign: https://youtu.be/eW5qtKoB7k4?si=Xf8Mdz-RAl7tH0vC
"Charge your batteries" is part of Interzero's public education campaign "Eko bez kantów" introducing Poles to the topic of selective waste collection, recycling and circular economy issues.
Interzero joins the affiliated members of the Chamber of Electronic Commerce!
Interzero Advisory Spółka z o.o joins the associated members of the Chamber of Electronic Commerce!
The development of Poland's digital economy plays one of the most important roles in shaping the country's future. We are on a timeline in the age of globalisation and the fastest technological progress to date - the ability to innovate and use modern digital tools is becoming the foundation of competitiveness on not just the national, but the international arena. The digital economy contributes to GDP growth and creates new jobs, supports the development of startups and fosters efficiency and sustainability in various sectors. In Poland, where traditional industries still play an important role, the development of the digital economy is particularly important to meet the challenges of the future. Looking further ahead in time - our challenges will be to reduce our dependence on raw materials, and to become more resilient to global shocks in the economic world.
What does the Chamber of the Electronic Economy do?
Chamber of the Electronic Economy works for the benefit of companies related to the electronic economy sector in Poland, with particular emphasis on those belonging to the e-Isba. Its main objective is to support the development of the Polish digital industry through cooperation, knowledge sharing, legislative initiatives and effective representation of the interests of its members in contacts with the institutions of the Polish government, the European Union and non-governmental organisations in the national and international arena.
Common goals, missions and views - why did Interzero become a member of the Chamber of the Electronic Economy?
Interzero has been making managing companies, businesses and green initiatives easier for decades. We are an industry leader - supporting sustainability by combining environmental protection with business needs - and these are constantly changing. There is no denying that environmental law is also an area that is rapidly evolving - our experts are on hand to help all official letters and new government directives be understood and implemented without too much trouble. Our mission is to provide comprehensive and integrated environmental solutions for new technologies and beyond. We do not take the easy way out - our choices when it comes to the world of e-commerce are backed up by a lot of research. We take into account both marketing, economics, ecology and logistics.
Sustainability: environmental protection and business
Sustainability is already an indispensable part of modern business. Today, small, large and medium-sized companies are faced with the challenge of reconciling environmental protection with the rapidly changing needs of the consumer market. At Interzero, we understand that caring for the ecosphere is no longer just a legal obligation - it puts the reputation of the entire brand, the bonds between employees and the profitability of the business at stake. Implementing innovative green solutions not only minimises the negative impact on the environment, but also increases operational efficiency and reduces costs. Recycling, outsourcing, waste management and much more - it's all happening in the digital world!
We will certainly be reaping the benefits that will be available to us through membership of the e-Island. We are looking forward to the latest industry news, the exchange of knowledge with other establishments and the challenges we will face in the years to come! Networking has never been the power it is today - together we will create reliable e-commerce that responds to social and business needs.
Universal USB-C charger - the new EU standard
Why will the universal USB-C charger be standard for all devices?
The universal USB-C charger will be standard for everyone by the end of 2024. Why? This is a top-down regulation of the European Union, which is primarily intended to guide consumers towards more ecological choices when shopping.
Under EU regulations, all phones, tablets and cameras sold in the EU will have to have a USB Type-C port by the end of 2024, and from spring 2026 the requirement will also be extended to laptops.
In this article you will learn:
- what type of chargers dominate the market and why were there EU demands for devices equipped with a charging port;
- which mobile devices will be affected by these changes and when the new regulations will come into force;
- in what direction is the European Parliament heading regarding the amount of waste and ecology in general.
Universal charger for all devices
The devices covered by the regulations include, among others, mobile phones. , tablets , game consoles , e-readers and others portable devices. All those devices that are charged by wire and operate at up to 100W will have to be equipped with a USB Type-C port - regardless of the manufacturer. This is a groundbreaking decision that aims to simplify the lives of consumers and reduce the negative impact of electrical and electronic waste on the environment. The European Commission and the European Parliament unanimously recognized that this solution will have a positive impact on the ecosphere and will allow for a minimal reduction in consumerism.
Customers can choose whether they want to purchase a new device with or without a charger. This should reduce the accumulation of e-waste in homes, and therefore the throwing of e-waste into inappropriate containers. The EU estimates that broken and unused chargers constitute around 11,000 tonnes of waste. This is a frightening amount - but another question arises - what about chargers with other tips when the EU recommendations regarding USB-C come into force?
Are all manufacturers ready for change?
European Commission research shows that half of all chargers sold in 2018 in EU countries used a USB micro-B connector. Only 29% had a USB-C connector, and 21% had a Lightning connector, used by Apple since 2012. Standardising chargers to a single standard will make many proprietary charging ports (like Apple's Lightning) obsolete in Europe. Manufacturers therefore argue that once chargers are standardised to USB-C, all the others that are already in consumers' homes will go to the trash. Researchers in an issue of the Northwestern Journal of International Law & Business investigated the matter. In fact, as of 2019, only 29% of phones sold in the European Union used USB-C chargers. Therefore, forcing the switch to USB-C would make almost 71% of chargers useless for consumers. Customers who buy newer devices with a USB-C port will no longer be able to reuse their older chargers with a different input.
Customer education - in line with new regulations. What changes will come with the unification of device chargers?
However, if we look at the matter in a broader, long-term perspective, according to analyses by the European Commission, thanks to the unification of the charging standard, European citizens will be able to save up to 250 million euros per year. In addition to economic benefits, the new regulations aim to reduce the amount of electronic waste , which is a significant step towards sustainable development. Guidelines regarding product charging requirements are to appear on device labels. Perhaps in a few years, we will only need one charger for all equipment at home or in the office?
Click here again! You can check how the paper recycling rate is growing in Europe! ♻️
How much is the deposit for bottles and cans? Check out the new rules!
We know the deposit amount for bottles and cans - check the current rates
On July 16, 2024, the long-awaited regulation of the Minister of Climate and Environment on the amount of the deposit for packaging covered by the deposit system was published. How much will the deposit be for beverage bottles and cans?
Deposit for bottles and cans in the Polish deposit system from 2025
In the Polish deposit system, the deposit amount will depend on the type of packaging. According to the latest regulation, from 2025, the deposit rates for bottles and cans will be as follows :
- disposable plastic bottles up to 3 l - PLN 0.50,
- metal cans up to 1 l - PLN 0.50,
- reusable glass bottles up to 1.5 l - PLN 1.00.
The Regulation was issued on the basis of the delegation contained in Article 40m section 2 of the Act on the management of packaging and packaging waste ( OJ 2013 item 888 ). According to its provisions, the amount of the deposit should be an incentive for consumers to return packaging and packaging waste , and at the same time be set at a socially acceptable level. The maximum amount of the deposit specified in the act may be PLN 2, which is why the Ministry should monitor the situation in the first months and years of the deposit system's operation and react on an ongoing basis by updating the amount of the deposit.
The aforementioned regulation shall enter into force 14 days after its announcement and shall come into force on the last days of July 2024.
Let us recall that the first draft of the regulation assumed the adoption of a uniform rate of PLN 0.50 for all packaging covered by the deposit system. However, it was met with numerous objections from bottlers and representatives of the waste industry, who pointed out that the proposed deposit rate for reusable glass bottles is lower than the deposit currently used in private return systems (PLN 1).
Changes in the deposit system - what have the last few weeks brought?
The final determination of the deposit amount for individual types of packaging covered by the deposit system is not the only novelty in the Polish deposit system that has been presented to the public in recent weeks.
- Another, third deposit system operator has entered the game. On July 17, 2024, the Minister of Climate and Environment allowed the Entity representing OK Operator Kaucyjny SA to create a deposit system covering single-use plastic bottles and metal beverage cans.
- The deadline for mandatory inclusion of reusable glass bottles in the deposit system has been postponed by one year. As a result, the currently operating private collection systems for such packaging can legally operate until 2026.
- Milk and other dairy product packaging has been excluded from the deposit system , which is in line with the dairy industry's demands. Initially, the deadline for including them in the deposit system was to be postponed by a year (to 2026), but ultimately the Ministry of Climate and Environment withdrew from this idea altogether.
- The logo of the deposit system was presented , which will be placed on all packaging covered by the Polish deposit system.
Get ready for the deposit system with Sielaff bottle machines
Interzero is the only official distributor in Poland that cooperates with the renowned German manufacturer of bottle vending machines - Sielaff. Thanks to this cooperation, we offer our customers the highest quality devices, designed with durability, efficiency and advanced technology in mind.
We offer full support - from consulting and device installation, to servicing and integration with IT systems. Our team of experts ensures that the implementation of bottle vending machines runs smoothly, and your company gains a modern tool tailored to the needs of customers. Check out the device offer at the link.