Swedish recycling platform Bower has partnered with German battery giant Varta to introduce an innovative AI-powered battery sorting feature. The technology, which recognizes and sorts consumer batteries without barcodes, aims to simplify recycling and promote sustainability by incentivizing responsible disposal.
AI Sorting Technology Simplifies Battery Recycling
Bower, a leader in AI-driven recycling solutions, has introduced a new feature in its app that allows users to sort batteries without the need for barcodes. Powered by artificial intelligence, this feature scans and recognizes batteries automatically, accurately sorting them for recycling. With an impressive accuracy rate of 85-90%, the app ensures that batteries are properly sorted, reducing the risk of contamination and making the recycling process more efficient.
Since its launch, the app has already sorted over 104,000 Varta batteries correctly, marking a significant milestone in Bower’s effort to improve recycling behaviors. The app’s ease of use and real-time feedback make it a game-changer for consumers, who can now recycle more effectively and earn rewards for their efforts, such as money, coupons, or charitable donations.
Partnership with Varta to Raise Awareness and Drive Action
In addition to simplifying the sorting process, Bower’s collaboration with Varta seeks to raise awareness about the importance of battery recycling. As one of Europe’s leading manufacturers of household batteries, Varta produces over 1.5 billion batteries annually, with a substantial presence in Europe and Asia. Through this partnership, Varta and Bower are working to encourage consumers to recycle more batteries by offering incentives. For every four Varta batteries sorted through the Bower app, Varta UK donates £1 to Scouts, the global youth organization, helping foster environmental stewardship among younger generations.
The partnership aligns with European Union regulations aimed at increasing battery collection rates. Under the new EU Batteries Regulation, which came into effect in 2023, the collection target for consumer batteries is set at 63% by 2027, with the goal of reaching 73% by 2030. The innovative AI sorting technology is seen as a vital tool in helping achieve these ambitious targets, making recycling more accessible and efficient.
Tackling Recycling Challenges and Environmental Risks
Battery recycling remains a significant challenge across Europe, with only 48% of consumer batteries being recycled despite the fact that nearly all batteries are recyclable. The main barriers to recycling include a lack of understanding among consumers about where and how to dispose of batteries, as well as the inconvenience of finding proper recycling locations.
Bower’s new technology addresses these issues by providing users with real-time information on how to dispose of batteries properly.
Additionally, by removing the need for barcodes and simplifying the process, the app makes it easier for consumers to recycle batteries, even those that are difficult to identify or lack clear labeling.
Improper disposal of batteries can lead to serious environmental and safety hazards. Batteries disposed of incorrectly can leak harmful chemicals, contaminate soil and water, and pose a fire risk. In the UK alone, over 1,200 fires were reported in waste sites in 2023 as a result of improper battery disposal. By offering a simpler, more reliable way to recycle, Bower’s technology helps mitigate these risks while promoting a circular economy.
Varta and Bower: A Shared Commitment to Sustainability
Varta has long been committed to sustainability and responsible manufacturing practices. Mark Munz, General Manager of Varta Consumer Batteries, stated, “As a leading European manufacturer, it’s our obligation to contribute to a more sustainable future and raise awareness about battery recycling.” This partnership with Bower is an important step in fulfilling that obligation, as it helps consumers understand the importance of proper battery disposal and encourages them to participate in recycling efforts.
Bower CEO Suwar Mert emphasized the broader environmental impact of the initiative, saying, “For far too long, improper battery disposal has caused chemical leaks, contaminated soil and water, and posed health risks to humans and wildlife. This has to stop, and it all starts with sorting.” With Bower’s AI-powered app, the process of recycling batteries has never been easier, and the company is proud to be leading this transformation toward more sustainable recycling practices.
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