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Waste disposal presents many industrial companies with complex challenges. According to a recent study, 80% of the companies surveyed want efficient solutions, and 66% want to outsource the necessary work processes entirely. The environmental service provider Interzero offers innovative disposal concepts and high-tech solutions that not only enable the complete recycling of all types of recyclable materials, but also save costs.

Vienna, April 15, 2024 – Around 70 million tons of waste are generated in Austria every year – a large part of which is packaging for industry. But this is not just waste, but valuable raw materials that can – and even must – be recycled. Current laws such as the new Austrian Packaging Ordinance, which has been in force since January 1, 2023, and the planned EU Packaging Ordinance set the pace here: In order to increase recycling rates in Austria and achieve a climate-neutral circular economy by 2050, waste must be recycled for as long as possible. But only if waste is disposed of correctly can it be used to produce valuable materials for recycling. Companies are therefore legally obliged to dispose of it properly. In practice, this means that waste materials must be sorted and compacted at the same place where they are generated in order to be able to be recycled. However, this presents numerous challenges for many industrial companies: packaging is usually still shredded by hand, collection points are overflowing and frequent collection transports cause high CO2 emissions and disposal costs.

Profitable waste recycling: 80% of managers want more efficient processes

In order to make waste management efficient, Interzero, as an innovation driver for the circular economy, develops tailor-made complete solutions – from recycling concepts to handling disposal and profitable waste recycling. As a recent study ¹ shows, the demand for such solutions is high: around 80% of the managers surveyed in Europe would like to focus on more efficient processes, measures to reduce waste and circular solutions. Around 40% would like to use external consulting services to develop such solutions. Two thirds (66%) would also like to be able to outsource work processes entirely.

“Through innovative disposal solutions, companies can convert waste into valuable materials and at the same time save costs, time and CO2 emissions. They can also generate additional income from their waste streams. Proper disposal is the be-all and end-all. As a full-service provider, we support you in all process steps and thus enable efficient and profitable waste management “, explains Martin Ulke, Managing Director of Interzero Circular Solutions Europe.

Up to 90% less volume: High-tech solutions save transport and disposal costs

In order to recycle waste as a valuable material, it must first be sorted and shredded. Interzero has been using the high-performance high-tech machines from the two world-leading suppliers ORWAK and Avermann for many years and is one of the few official trading partners to sell them in Austria. With these waste compaction and baling systems, large quantities of packaging and waste materials – such as cardboard, film, PET bottles, cans or even residual waste – can be sorted directly at the source at the push of a button and pressed into bales with little noise. This means that waste quantities can be reduced to up to 10% of their original volume, saving transport and disposal costs and minimizing environmental impact. After pressing, the material can be picked up directly by Interzero, which buys this material, recycles it and makes it available to industry for reuse.

“The use of waste compaction systems not only saves a lot of space, but also a lot of time. Waste compaction is now carried out without any manual effort and with a significantly reduced risk of injury. Interzero’s waste compaction solutions therefore make a decisive contribution to greater efficiency and effectiveness. They enable sustainable management, improve occupational safety and help comply with environmental guidelines. This reduces disposal costs and improves the ecological footprint. “, says Martin Ulke.

Successful implementation in industry: SWARCO and Sto as model companies

Many industrial companies are faced with the challenge of having to dispose of large quantities of waste efficiently and in a space-saving manner. Due to the high volume of waste, skips quickly become overfilled – frequent collection trips and high disposal costs are the result. This is why many leading industrial companies have been relying on efficient waste compaction solutions from Interzero for years. For example, SWARCO Road Marking Systems – a division of the Austrian traffic technology group SWARCO – and the company STO at the Villach site. Large quantities of plastic packaging such as transport bags (big bags) and films – some of which were previously pressed by employees with the help of a forklift – can now be easily collected and compacted in the shortest possible time using waste presses. This saves costs, time and CO2 emissions. “What used to be a strenuous task for our employees can now be handled efficiently with a container press. This enables us to reduce our waste volumes, which means fewer collection transports and therefore fewer CO2 emissions and disposal costs. Interzero also supports us in meeting all legal obligations regarding waste disposal “, explains Daniel Rumbold, Head of Logistics at Sto Austria. SWARCO Road Marking Systems is already demonstrating at several locations in Austria how waste compaction can not only save costs and CO2, but also generate revenue. By using several baling presses, cardboard, foil and big bags are pressed into bales of different types at the push of a button. The bales are then picked up by a recycling company, which processes the pressed materials and remunerates them accordingly as recyclable materials. “

The collaboration with Interzero has changed the awareness of our employees – many have now realized that with the help of modern solutions, waste can be converted into valuable materials. Through efficient waste compaction, we can not only save costs and CO2, but also generate income from our waste streams. Given the many advantages, we would like to expand the use of the presses to other locations “, explains Martina Dobner, CSR Specialist at SWARCO Road Marking Systems. ¹ The study was conducted in July 2023 on behalf of Interzero by Target Research in Austria, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia and Poland. 235 C-level executives in medium and large companies from industry, trade and the food and beverage industry were surveyed. You can find more information about our machines on our website: Machine Trading Platform – Interzero Austria Product Platform

We are pleased to invite you on an inspiring trip into the world of the circular economy. From May 13 to 17, 2024, Interzero will be exhibiting at IFAT 2024 in Munich – the world trade fair for water, sewage, waste and raw materials management. We look forward to presenting our innovative circular solutions and the latest developments in the field of efficient plastic recycling to you in Hall A6 at Stand 450. Discover the circular economy of tomorrow with us
We at Interzero stand for a future-oriented circular economy. As winners of the German Sustainability Award 2024, we will show you how your company can benefit from circular solutions both ecologically and economically. Find out on our event page which specific solutions you can get to know at our stand at IFAT. Get your free GoGreen day ticket now
Register with the keyword IFAT at marketing@interzero.at and receive a voucher code for a free day ticket, which automatically makes a climate protection contribution to offset the travel emissions.

Are you interested in a personal conversation? We are happy to help you!
>> Reply now and secure your appointment!

A turning point in textile recycling is imminent: Extended producer responsibility, a regulation already successfully implemented in other sectors such as packaging, electrical appliances, and batteries, will become a reality in 2026. This significant change will require textile producers and retailers to pay a license fee for placing their goods on the market. Interzero is shaping the future of the textile circular economy and is preparing innovative Circular Textile solutions with an eye on future regulations.

As a proven license partner in various material flows, Interzero recognizes the importance of this development and is actively preparing to assume a leading position in the textile circular economy. Although the legal framework is still unclear, we remain proactive: We initiate innovation and establish strategic partnerships with sorting facilities and textile recyclers, and offer customized take-back systems for companies.

The textile industry faces major challenges regarding recycling innovation. Here are some key aspects:

Challenges in the recycling process : Fiber-to-fiber recycling requires high-purity materials and specific pre-sorting. Such a sorting infrastructure capable of accurately identifying materials does not yet exist on an industrial scale.

Current state of the industry : Although recycling technologies are being developed and some brands are already pursuing circular approaches, widespread industrial adoption is still lacking. However, European regulations such as the mandatory separate collection from 2025 will bring about a decisive change and have a lasting impact on the industry.

Our role and vision : Interzero has set itself the ambitious goal of enabling fiber-to-fiber recycling and scaling it across the industry. We not only provide the necessary collection and sorting infrastructure, but also advise brands and producers on their path to extended producer responsibility. Our belief? Through collaboration and innovation, we can establish an effective circular system for textiles that works across industries.

Do you have any questions for us? Actively shape the future of the textile circular economy with Interzero.
>> Contact us now!

On February 18, 2024, an era of new obligations began: The EU Battery Regulation comes into force to comprehensively regulate the requirements of batteries across their entire life cycle – from resource procurement and production to disposal. Efforts are already underway in Austria to implement this regulation, which requires coordination across various ministries. The innovations in the EU Battery Regulation 2024 will set a new standard. In addition to ensuring the efficient functioning of the internal market, the aim of the new EU regulation is to prevent negative environmental impacts of batteries and to protect human health and the environment. All types of batteries are affected by the new regulations.

What is changing?

The regulation brings with it many new requirements , such as carbon footprint and labelling requirements, and sets ambitious targets for collection and recycling. The collection rate for waste portable batteries is to be increased to 63% by 2027 and to 73% by 2030. In addition, the introduction of recycled content for certain types of batteries will influence production and disposal processes.

Why is this important?

• Environmental protection : The regulation aims to reduce the harmful environmental impact of batteries and improve their recyclability.
• Sustainability : Given the growing role of batteries, efficient and sustainable use is crucial for the future.
• Innovation : Promoting progress and competitiveness in battery technology is a core objective of the Regulation.
• Recycling : Improved recycling rates contribute to resource efficiency and promote the circular economy.

Stay informed and always prepared for the new battery regulations.
>> Contact us for more information and support.

We are pleased to announce the expansion of our management team: Mag. Thomas Glatz , renowned expert in the sales sector, is now strengthening our management team. With his impressive career and expertise in sales, marketing and strategic corporate management , Thomas will now head Interzero in Austria in close cooperation with CEO Martin Ulke. Martin Ulke about Thomas Glatz: “With Thomas at our side, we are not only strengthening our sales, but also consolidating our position as a pioneer in the circular economy. His in-depth industry knowledge and understanding of the needs of our potential customers are invaluable to us.” Thomas Glatz shares his motivation: “I am excited to be part of the dynamic team at Interzero Austria. With my experience in production and trade, I would like to help tailor our innovative solutions even more precisely to the requirements of our customers in order to strengthen sales and our sustainability goals.” Together we look forward to a successful future and warmly welcome Thomas Glatz to our team.

Further information can be found in our press release .

Photo copyright: Richard Tanzer

Interzero offers you advanced machines and balers that optimize your recycling processes . Our technologies, such as the powerful Orwak Power 3420, are designed to improve your operations, reduce costs and minimize space requirements. By compacting your waste, you not only reduce the frequency of collection, but also make a significant contribution to protecting the environment. Fewer transports mean fewer CO2 emissions and higher quality recyclable materials supports recycling . Our solutions are characterized by safety and user-friendliness, reduce the risk of accidents and guarantee trouble-free operation thanks to our extensive service network. The auto-start function, self-opening sliding doors and our low-profile design ensure convenience and easy integration into your processes. With Interzero as your partner, you benefit from tailor-made solutions that not only increase your recycling efficiency, but also improve your sustainability performance. Our vision of a world without waste comes closer with every step towards optimized recycling. Discover how Interzero can revolutionize your recycling.

Contact us directly via the contact form!

Would you like to find out more about our balers and machines? On our technical product portal you can find out about our extensive range and receive detailed information about the individual presses. Would you like to speak directly to one of our sales experts? Then arrange a 20-minute Teams call and get an idea of our extensive options and leasing possibilities.

>> machine product portal

>> More information about the Orwak Power 3420

• missionPET and Interzero: A success story for sustainability and innovation
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With the Environmental Sustainability Dashboard (ESD), Interzero offers a new consulting focus. Our team, led by Mariella Julia Franz, a renowned GRI-certified consultant , offers in-depth insights and tailored support in the core areas of sustainability reporting, materiality analysis and strategic development. This specialized expertise is key to meeting CSRD requirements and fine-tuning your environmental performance indicators, giving you a significant competitive advantage. Our team of consultants is complemented by Bennet Sumerauer , whose in-depth experience in packaging technology brings specific insights to the area of ESD. Our experts ensure that your reporting not only complies with the latest standards, but also includes targeted measures that directly increase your business performance. Our mission is to tailor your ESG strategy precisely to your needs and provide you with comprehensive support to not only achieve but exceed your sustainability goals. With Interzero at your side, implementing ESD turns into a clear path to improving your sustainability performance. Discover how our expert advice can transform your sustainability management . Contact us now!

• Environmental Sustainability Dashboard (ESD): The new solution for CSRD-compliant collection of environmental indicators

The year 2023 represents a significant step forward in Austria’s recycling sector . By expanding collection – including plastic bottles and composite beverage cartons, as well as cups, bowls, foils and other plastic and metal packaging in the yellow bag and yellow bin – Austria is seeing a remarkable increase in the amount of lightweight and metal packaging collected. In total, more than 220,000 tons of these materials were collected nationwide, an increase of over 6% compared to the previous year . The increases were particularly impressive in the federal states of Vienna and Lower Austria . Here the amount collected increased by over 20%. These increases illustrate the successful implementation of the standardized collection in Lower Austria at the beginning of 2023, which enabled a collection increase of around 23%. St. Pölten city stands out with an increase of 59% , while Horn recorded an increase of 21% . Carinthia is also showing its strong side with a nationwide increase of around 15%. Klagenfurt city exceeds the general rate of increase with an increase of 20%. There were also slight increases in regions that already had comprehensive collection, such as Spittal an der Drau. Martin Ulke from Interzero emphasizes that increasing the amount collected is an important step, but alone is not enough to achieve the EU recycling quotas. The importance of the recyclability of packaging and the development of innovative methods such as chemical recycling are central to future success. Interzero, as a leading service provider in the circular economy, is committed to making the collection of packaging as easy as possible for citizens. These efforts are making a significant contribution to achieving the EU recycling quota for plastics and are making a significant contribution to climate and environmental protection. Read more about our progress in recycling and how you can contribute!

• Yellow bag and yellow bin can now do more: New recycling collection system brings a regional collection increase of over 20%

The Environmental Sustainability Dashboard not only enables companies to clearly record and present relevant environmental indicators, but also to produce CSRD-compliant sustainability reporting. The environmental service provider Interzero provides support from the analysis of relevant parameters to the implementation of targeted measures to make companies more sustainable.

Vienna, February 12, 2024 – With the new Environmental Sustainability Dashboard (ESD), the environmental service provider Interzero offers companies a modern solution for recording and optimizing relevant environmental indicators. The ESD not only makes the constantly growing flood of data manageable, but also enables companies to manage their sustainability measures in a data-based and accurate manner. Simple solution for CSRD-compliant sustainability reporting
The requirements for companies in sustainability reporting are also increasing with the tightened requirements of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) – depending on the size of the company, as early as 2024. Based on the international standards GRI, GHG and CED, the ESD is an easy-to-use solution for determining the sustainability indicators required for reporting in accordance with the CSRD.

“Our dashboard makes sustainability in companies measurable by recording all relevant key figures and presenting them clearly. This not only enables CSRD-compliant sustainability reporting, but also creates a sound basis for improving the environmental performance of companies. This also ensures their long-term competitiveness on the market.” , explains Martin Ulke, Managing Director of Interzero Circular Solutions Europe.

Support from the analysis of relevant parameters to the implementation of targeted measures
Starting with the identification and analysis of relevant data – for example in connection with energy consumption, resource consumption, waste generation and emissions – Interzero accompanies and advises companies on their way to improving their environmental performance. In order to derive meaningful activities from the recorded parameters, an interpretation of the reported data is first necessary. Based on this, measures can then be developed that specifically improve selected key figures and thus align the company sustainably.

“The ESD serves as a basis for all companies that want to report their environmental impact in accordance with all legal requirements and subsequently minimize it. Depending on requirements, we are available to provide advice and offer a wide range of services and products that enable concrete progress to be made,” says Ulke. More information on Interzero’s new Environmental Sustainability Dashboard: https://interzero.at/esd

Made4Circle meets the growing demand for recyclable packaging. In view of the EU directive to use only recyclable packaging by 2030 , Interzero presents the ideal solution: an advanced system that helps you to smoothly integrate this change into your business. We understand the challenges and opportunities that EU legislation presents for companies. That is why we have developed Made4Circle – a service that covers the entire cycle from packaging analysis to efficient implementation. Our commitment has already led to a successful switch to environmentally friendly packaging that meets the highest hygienic standards at Hubers Landhendl . At Made4Circle, the focus is on tailor-made solutions. Our experts work together with the research and development team in Maribor to continuously improve and develop future-oriented packaging solutions. This specialization enables us to provide each customer with individual support and ensure that the packaging developed not only meets legal requirements, but also advances our customers’ sustainability goals. As your partner for circular economy solutions, we offer Made4Circle , a true circular economy solution that reduces costs while increasing raw material security . Our experts are ready to work with you to develop packaging that is truly recyclable. We, Martin Ulke and the Interzero team, invite you to become part of this sustainable movement. Our packaging experts are here to discuss your specific needs and develop packaging solutions that make a difference. Get in touch and start the transition to recyclable packaging. Made4Circle is your key to a sustainable packaging future. Find out more about Made4Circle here !

• Success story: Hubers Landhendl relies on Made4Circle
• Award for Europe’s leading recycling service provider