Accurate tax calculation, reduction of time/costs, and raising environmental awareness among citizens were the main challenges that led an Italian municipality to implement RFID technology in its waste management process at the beginning of 2024.

How has RFID been implemented? 

For the automatic tracking of waste collection (from pickup to disposal), Garbage Labels were introduced. These are UHF PP labels printed and affixed to trash bins using 3M adhesive, which ensures greater durability compared to standard adhesives. Although they are a ‘basic’ and cost-effective technology, they are ideal for this application because they are weather-resistant due to the materials used, making them suitable for outdoor environments.

Each of these labels is also equipped with a unique code that stores all user information in its electronic memory. This data is crucial for the “door-to-door” collection process and for accurately calculating taxes based on the actual amount of waste collected.

As an alternative to the Garbage Labels, the client was offered Tally Tags, which are UHF PVC tags with two side holes that make them easy to attach to any type of surface. Although these tags are made from a more durable material and are resistant to weather conditions, the municipality chose to use the labels, as they were deemed sufficient to meet the needs of the waste collection process.

A few months after the introduction of the Garbage Labels, the municipal council also approved the implementation of Bin Tags specifically for roll-off containers. These IP68 UHF tags, made of nylon, are highly performant and resistant to water, fog, snow, temperature fluctuations, and impacts.

The execution process is very simple: the operator, without performing any additional actions beyond their usual routine, collects the containers with RFID tags from the roadside and transfers them into the truck’s hopper. The system automatically detects and collects data from the tags and transmits it once the truck returns to the base, allowing for the calculation of the amount each individual citizen must pay.

By using RFID technology, users are encouraged to sort different types of materials in order to minimize both the residual waste to be disposed of and, of course, the associated taxation.

The benefits extend not only to the citizens but also to the administrations themselves, which have achieved significant savings due to reduced time and labor costs.

The introduction of Garbage Labels and Bin Tags has brought significant benefits to all parties involved in the waste management process. It has proven to be a valuable ally in moving closer to the concept of a “Smart City,” ensuring environmental protection.