Saving resources with AI: VARTA supports innovative recycling app from Bower

VARTA, a leading European manufacturer of batteries, is the main battery-partner of the world's first app with artificial intelligence (AI) for the immediate recognition and recycling of recyclable materials from the Swedish start-up Bower, founded in 2019. The battery manufacturer from Ellwangen in Baden-Württemberg has supported Bower in this project from the outset and is now also supporting the roll-out of the app in Europe. The AI function will go live from September 2024.

"As a battery manufacturer, we bear responsibility for every step of the production process - from researching environmentally friendly materials and developing resource-saving product designs to production and recycling our own production waste. Technology offers answers to many sustainability challenges. By supporting Bower, we are sending out a clear signal in favour of promoting more sustainable technologies and the responsible use of resources. We are delighted that the use of artificial intelligence will make recycling even easier and more efficient," says Michael Ostermann, CEO of VARTA.

VARTA has supported start-up Bower in the Nordic countries since its inception and is now an international partner of the Bower AI recycling app. Like VARTA, Bower is a driver of innovative solutions of the highest quality in key European markets. Mark Munz, General Manager International Sales & Marketing Consumer Batteries: "As a leading European battery manufacturer, it is our duty to contribute to a more sustainable future and raise awareness about battery recycling. Working with innovative technologies such as Bower helps us to fulfil this commitment".

Consumers can use the app to collect bonus points and receive cash back when they return batteries. The automatic recognition of VARTA batteries by the AI solution makes the return process even quicker and easier. A scan with the smartphone camera identifies products or recyclable materials and also provides instant information on suitable recycling options. In Scandinavia alone, around 175,000 batteries have been recycled via the app so far.

As part of a six-month Google.org Fellowship, Swedish start-up Bower received a grant of €1.75 million and the support of a team of Google engineers. The new technology allows recyclable materials to be detected with an accuracy of 85 to 90 per cent.

Berfin Mert, co-founder and COO of Bower: "We would like to thank VARTA for their continuous support and innovative attitude, which has made it possible for Bower & VARTA together to test and develop new technologies for further engagement of consumers around battery recycling."

About VARTA AG

VARTA AG manufactures and distributes a comprehensive battery portfolio ranging from microbatteries, hearing aid batteries, household batteries and energy storage systems to customised battery solutions for a wide range of applications, setting industry standards as a technology leader in key areas.

With almost 140 years of experience in battery technology and intensive research and development, VARTA sets global standards in many areas of lithium-ion technology and microbatteries and is today the recognised innovation leader in the important growth markets for lithium-ion technology and primary batteries for hearing aids. The VARTA AG Group currently employs around 4000 people. With five production and manufacturing sites in Europe and Asia as well as distribution centres in Asia, Europe and the USA, VARTA AG's operating subsidiaries are currently active in over 100 countries worldwide.

Contact
Interim press spokesperson
Dirk T. Schmitt
Rosenberg Strategic Communications
+49 170 302 8833
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