Quick Overview
- 1#1: Circularise - Provides blockchain-based digital product passports for full traceability of recycled plastics in supply chains.
- 2#2: ReMatter - Offers a data collaboration platform for tracking and optimizing plastic recycling material flows.
- 3#3: AMCS - Delivers enterprise software for end-to-end management of recycling operations including plastic processing.
- 4#4: Rubicon - Uses AI to optimize collection, sorting, and analytics for plastic waste and recycling programs.
- 5#5: TOMRA - Supplies advanced analytics and sorting software for high-efficiency plastic recovery in MRFs.
- 6#6: CurbWaste - Streamlines dispatch, routing, and billing for recycling haulers handling plastics.
- 7#7: Wastebits - Manages electronic manifests and compliance tracking for plastic recyclables.
- 8#8: ScaleWatch - Automates weighbridge ticketing and inventory for plastic recycling yards.
- 9#9: DesertMicro - Offers POS, dispatch, and scale integration software for scrap and plastic recyclers.
- 10#10: Wastetrak - Provides field service and CRM tools for managing plastic waste collection and recycling.
Tools were chosen for their ability to deliver user-friendly, robust solutions that enhance operational efficiency, ensure compliance, and drive cost savings, with a focus on aligning with varied recycling workflows, including MRFs, hauling, and processing operations.
Comparison Table
Efficient plastic recycling demands robust software solutions to optimize operations, minimize waste, and boost sustainability. This comparison table explores leading tools like Circularise, ReMatter, AMCS, Rubicon, TOMRA, and others, detailing their key features and capabilities. Readers will discover how to select the right software for their recycling workflows.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Circularise Provides blockchain-based digital product passports for full traceability of recycled plastics in supply chains. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 2 | ReMatter Offers a data collaboration platform for tracking and optimizing plastic recycling material flows. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 3 | AMCS Delivers enterprise software for end-to-end management of recycling operations including plastic processing. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Rubicon Uses AI to optimize collection, sorting, and analytics for plastic waste and recycling programs. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 5 | TOMRA Supplies advanced analytics and sorting software for high-efficiency plastic recovery in MRFs. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | CurbWaste Streamlines dispatch, routing, and billing for recycling haulers handling plastics. | enterprise | 6.8/10 | 6.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 6.9/10 |
| 7 | Wastebits Manages electronic manifests and compliance tracking for plastic recyclables. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 6.5/10 | 6.8/10 |
| 8 | ScaleWatch Automates weighbridge ticketing and inventory for plastic recycling yards. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 9 | DesertMicro Offers POS, dispatch, and scale integration software for scrap and plastic recyclers. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | Wastetrak Provides field service and CRM tools for managing plastic waste collection and recycling. | other | 6.7/10 | 6.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 6.8/10 |
Provides blockchain-based digital product passports for full traceability of recycled plastics in supply chains.
Offers a data collaboration platform for tracking and optimizing plastic recycling material flows.
Delivers enterprise software for end-to-end management of recycling operations including plastic processing.
Uses AI to optimize collection, sorting, and analytics for plastic waste and recycling programs.
Supplies advanced analytics and sorting software for high-efficiency plastic recovery in MRFs.
Streamlines dispatch, routing, and billing for recycling haulers handling plastics.
Manages electronic manifests and compliance tracking for plastic recyclables.
Automates weighbridge ticketing and inventory for plastic recycling yards.
Offers POS, dispatch, and scale integration software for scrap and plastic recyclers.
Provides field service and CRM tools for managing plastic waste collection and recycling.
Circularise
specializedProvides blockchain-based digital product passports for full traceability of recycled plastics in supply chains.
Threshold Method for precise mass balance traceability of recycled plastics across complex supply chains
Circularise is a blockchain-based platform specializing in supply chain traceability for the circular economy, with a strong focus on plastics recycling. It enables end-to-end visibility from recycled feedstock to finished products through digital product passports and mass balance accounting. The software helps companies verify recycled content, ensure regulatory compliance (e.g., PPWR), and collaborate securely across supply chains without revealing sensitive data.
Pros
- Blockchain-secured traceability for verifiable recycled plastic content
- Advanced mass balance methodology compliant with ISCC standards
- Seamless multi-stakeholder collaboration via permissioned data sharing
Cons
- Enterprise-scale focus may overwhelm smaller operations
- Full value requires supply chain-wide adoption
- Pricing lacks transparency without sales consultation
Best For
Large plastics manufacturers, recyclers, and brands scaling circular supply chains with regulatory proof requirements.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; contact sales for tailored quotes based on usage and scale.
ReMatter
specializedOffers a data collaboration platform for tracking and optimizing plastic recycling material flows.
Blockchain-based digital waste passports for verifiable plastic material provenance
ReMatter is a specialized software platform tailored for plastic recycling operations, providing end-to-end tools for material tracking, supply chain transparency, and marketplace connectivity between waste generators and recyclers. It leverages AI-driven analytics to optimize sorting, predict recovery rates, and ensure regulatory compliance through digital waste passports. The platform facilitates real-time inventory management and B2B trading of recycled plastics, helping users reduce landfill waste and monetize recyclables effectively.
Pros
- Comprehensive traceability with blockchain integration
- AI-powered matching for buyers and sellers
- Detailed analytics for optimizing recycling yields
Cons
- Interface can feel overwhelming for new users
- Pricing scales quickly for high-volume operations
- Limited integrations with legacy recycling hardware
Best For
Mid-to-large plastic recycling facilities and manufacturers needing robust supply chain visibility and trading capabilities.
Pricing
Starts at $299/month for basic plans, with enterprise tiers from $1,500/month based on volume and features.
AMCS
enterpriseDelivers enterprise software for end-to-end management of recycling operations including plastic processing.
AMCS Clarity analytics platform for predictive insights into plastic material flows and profitability
AMCS offers a robust enterprise resource planning (ERP) platform designed for waste management and recycling operations, with strong capabilities for tracking and processing plastic recyclables through its AMCS 360 suite. The software integrates collection routing, weighbridge management, material sorting, compliance reporting, and analytics to optimize plastic recycling workflows from inbound collection to outbound sales. It provides end-to-end visibility, helping recyclers manage inventory, quality control, and regulatory adherence efficiently.
Pros
- Comprehensive ERP with real-time material tracking ideal for plastic recycling volumes
- Advanced route optimization and telematics integration for efficient collection
- Strong analytics and compliance tools for regulatory reporting in recycling
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to enterprise-level complexity
- Pricing is opaque and geared toward larger operations
- Limited out-of-the-box customization for niche plastic processing needs
Best For
Mid-to-large plastic recycling facilities with complex collection, processing, and compliance requirements seeking scalable enterprise solutions.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically subscription-based starting at $10,000+ annually, scaled by users, modules, and fleet size.
Rubicon
enterpriseUses AI to optimize collection, sorting, and analytics for plastic waste and recycling programs.
Rubicon Marketplace for real-time bidding and vendor matching on plastic recycling services
Rubicon is a comprehensive waste management platform that streamlines recycling operations for businesses, including plastic waste streams, through data analytics, route optimization, and vendor management. It enables users to track recycling volumes, monitor diversion rates, and access real-time pricing for commodities like plastics via its marketplace. The software emphasizes sustainability reporting to help companies reduce landfill waste and improve recycling efficiency.
Pros
- Robust analytics for tracking plastic recycling metrics and diversion rates
- Integrated marketplace for sourcing plastic recycling services and haulers
- Sustainability dashboards for ESG reporting and compliance
Cons
- Enterprise-focused pricing lacks transparency for smaller operations
- Interface can feel complex for users new to waste management software
- Limited specialized tools for plastic-specific processes like sorting or quality grading
Best For
Large enterprises and commercial facilities managing high-volume plastic waste streams alongside other recyclables.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically starts at several thousand dollars annually based on scale.
TOMRA
specializedSupplies advanced analytics and sorting software for high-efficiency plastic recovery in MRFs.
TOMRA Insight's real-time, cloud-based analytics with AI predictions for machine performance and material flow
TOMRA offers integrated software solutions like TOMRA Insight and Collection Management Software, designed to optimize plastic recycling through real-time data analytics from reverse vending machines (RVMs) and optical sorting systems. It enables operators to monitor collection volumes, material quality, and machine performance for PET and other plastics, improving efficiency in deposit return schemes and MRFs. The platform supports predictive maintenance, reporting, and sustainability tracking to reduce contamination and boost recovery rates.
Pros
- Advanced AI-driven analytics for sorting and collection optimization
- Seamless integration with TOMRA's global hardware fleet
- Comprehensive reporting for compliance and ESG goals
Cons
- Heavily tied to TOMRA hardware, limiting flexibility
- Complex setup and steep learning curve for non-enterprise users
- Pricing opaque and scaled for large operations
Best For
Large recycling operators and municipalities managing high-volume RVM networks or MRFs focused on plastic bottle recovery.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically subscription-based per machine or facility (contact for quotes; starts at tens of thousands annually for fleets).
CurbWaste
enterpriseStreamlines dispatch, routing, and billing for recycling haulers handling plastics.
AI-driven dynamic routing that adjusts in real-time for optimal plastic recycling pickups
CurbWaste is a cloud-based operations platform tailored for waste haulers, focusing on curbside collection including recycling streams like plastics. It provides route optimization, driver dispatching, customer management, and billing tools to streamline collection workflows. While versatile for general waste, its recycling capabilities support basic tracking of plastic bins but lack deep specialization in processing or quality control.
Pros
- Advanced route optimization reduces fuel costs for plastic collection routes
- Integrated CRM and billing simplify customer interactions for recycling services
- Real-time mobile app for drivers enhances collection efficiency
Cons
- Lacks plastic-specific features like resin type tracking or contamination analysis
- Not optimized for recycling plant operations beyond curbside pickup
- Pricing can be steep for smaller recycling-focused operations
Best For
Mid-sized curbside waste haulers managing plastic recycling collections who need robust routing and operations tools.
Pricing
Custom pricing starting at around $500/month based on users, trucks, and features; free demo available.
Wastebits
specializedManages electronic manifests and compliance tracking for plastic recyclables.
EPA-approved electronic manifests for seamless, paperless tracking of plastic recycling shipments
Wastebits is a cloud-based waste management platform that facilitates compliance tracking, electronic manifesting, and reporting for waste generators, transporters, and facilities. It supports waste profiling, container management, and customer portals to streamline operations across various waste streams, including recyclables like plastics. While versatile for general waste handling, it provides tools for documenting plastic recycling processes through manifests and regulatory reports.
Pros
- Strong EPA-compliant e-manifest capabilities for tracking plastic waste shipments
- Comprehensive waste profiling and compliance reporting tools
- Integrated billing and customer portal for recycling operations
Cons
- Lacks specialized features for plastic-specific processes like resin sorting or quality grading
- Interface can feel dated and requires training for full utilization
- Pricing is opaque and customized, potentially costly for smaller recyclers
Best For
Mid-sized waste haulers or recycling facilities managing mixed waste streams with a focus on regulatory compliance.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting around $500/month based on volume and users; contact sales for quotes.
ScaleWatch
specializedAutomates weighbridge ticketing and inventory for plastic recycling yards.
ScaleGuard AI for predictive maintenance and anomaly detection in weighing processes
ScaleWatch is a cloud-based scale management software designed for real-time monitoring and automation of weighbridge and scale operations across industries like recycling. It enables precise weight tracking for inbound and outbound materials, integrates with ERP systems like SAP for seamless data flow, and offers customizable reporting and alerts for operational efficiency. For plastic recycling, it excels in accurate measurement of bulk plastic waste, bales, and processed outputs, supporting inventory management and compliance.
Pros
- Real-time remote scale monitoring reduces on-site needs
- Seamless ERP integrations for automated data handling
- Robust reporting and anomaly detection for accurate tracking
Cons
- Lacks specialized plastic recycling features like material traceability or sorting integration
- Pricing can be high for small-scale operations
- Requires reliable internet connectivity for full functionality
Best For
Medium to large plastic recycling facilities with high-volume weighing needs and existing ERP systems.
Pricing
Subscription-based SaaS model starting at around $500/month per scale, with enterprise custom pricing based on volume and integrations.
DesertMicro
specializedOffers POS, dispatch, and scale integration software for scrap and plastic recyclers.
Advanced resin and bale traceability module for precise material sorting and recycling yield optimization
DesertMicro offers a specialized ERP solution tailored for plastic manufacturers and recyclers, focusing on inventory management, production scheduling, and traceability for recycled materials. The software excels in tracking plastic bales, sorting by resin type, and managing regrind processes to optimize recycling operations. It includes modules for quality control, compliance reporting, and supply chain integration, making it suitable for mid-sized recycling facilities.
Pros
- Robust inventory tracking for plastic resins and regrind materials
- Customizable production modules for recycling workflows
- Strong compliance and reporting tools for environmental regulations
Cons
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native solutions
- Limited native mobile app functionality
- Integrations with third-party recycling hardware are basic
Best For
Mid-sized plastic recycling operations needing affordable, industry-specific ERP without advanced AI features.
Pricing
Custom pricing starting at around $1,000/month for basic setups, scaling with users and modules; one-time licensing options available.
Wastetrak
otherProvides field service and CRM tools for managing plastic waste collection and recycling.
Real-time GPS route optimization tailored for waste collection vehicles
Wastetrak is a cloud-based waste management platform primarily designed for haulers, brokers, and landfills to streamline operations like route planning, dispatching, billing, and compliance reporting. It supports tracking of waste volumes and types, including recyclables, with features for customer portals and mobile driver apps. While functional for general waste collection, it lacks deep specialization in plastic recycling processes such as material grading, bale management, or contamination analysis.
Pros
- Strong route optimization and GPS tracking for collection efficiency
- User-friendly mobile app for drivers
- Comprehensive reporting and billing integration
Cons
- Limited plastic-specific features like grade tracking or quality control
- No advanced traceability for recycling supply chains
- Pricing requires custom quotes, lacking transparency
Best For
Small to mid-sized waste haulers managing mixed recycling streams that include plastics but not focused on processing.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $99/user/month with tiers based on fleet size and features.
Conclusion
This review showcased 10 impactful tools reshaping plastic recycling, each with unique strengths. Leading the pack, Circularise stands out with blockchain-based digital passports, enabling unbroken traceability across supply chains—a critical asset for transparency. ReMatter follows with data collaboration to optimize material flows, while AMCS impresses with enterprise-grade end-to-end management for seamless operations. The choice depends on specific needs, but Circularise emerges as the top option, with ReMatter and AMCS as strong alternatives.
Explore Circularise to elevate your recycling efforts, whether you’re streamlining traceability or scaling operations—its innovative technology sets a new standard for plastic recycling sustainability.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
