With a simple box, cars could be safe from theft.
Tags on consumer goods are increasingly fitted with an integrated wireless module, which triggers an alarm if the item is stolen.
Still, the mix of paper, electronics and adhesives used to make them is equally alarming. Now, a London-based startup is hoping to combat the hard-to-recycle combination with a pure paper-based solution.
The circuitry is induced directly onto the paper by a finely-tuned laser beam which moves along the surface, converting it into electroconductive carbon.
In the fashion industry alone, an annual 24 billion RFID labels could give way to easily recyclable replacements. Labels made from leaves would be more sustainable still.
Work is also underway to create biodegradable displays.
