93. The death of the barcode - a win for sustainability?

A quiet revolution is underway in our supermarkets, the familiar barcode is being replaced by QR codes. But this isn’t just a tech upgrade. These next-generation codes could transform how we shop, unlocking detailed product information, improving recycling, and even helping to reduce food waste. As every scan reveals more data, this shift raises a bigger question: are we ready for a future where the things we buy know more about us than ever before? Plus, is cooking oil rubbish or not, will EU rules mean single use air fresheners are banned, and why is Robbie taking inspiration from Kamikatsu?

Join hosts James Piper and Robbie Staniforth as they delve into the world of recycling, hopefully having fun along the way. One thing is for sure, they will talk absolute rubbish from start to finish.

We would like to have an evening Talking Rubbish to celebrate our 100th episode. It will be in central Bristol on the evening of the 25th June, to let us know if you can make it, book your place on Eventbrite

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Transcripts and episodes can be found on the Talking Rubbish website

Timestamps:
Is this the end of the barcode? - 03:21
Additions and corrections - 30:07
Rubbish or Not: cooking oil - 35:53
Rubbish News - 41:21
Will single use air fresheners be banned under PPWR? - 51:00
Residual Rubbish - 53:42

Music licence ID: 6WPY8Q4O2RPFIOTL