Case Study: Footprint Zero tackles plastic bag recycling with EPAM Systems

EPAM Continuum and Footprint Zero Partner to Tame a Pollution Beast

Footprint Zero, a startup focused on making plastic bag collection and recycling more accessible and affordable, partnered with EPAM Systems to tackle the growing environmental problem caused by the billions of plastic bags used each year. The challenge was to create a practical way to collect and process all types of plastic bags while keeping the solution safe, affordable, and ready for real-world use.

EPAM Systems used its EPAM Continuum Made Real Lab to co-create and prototype a bag-handling device, applying human-centered design, engineering, and rigorous testing to refine pressure, temperature, and safety. The team built features like a motion sensor and slowly moving wheels to gently guide bags into the receptacle, and also conducted gas analysis to ensure heating would not produce harmful emissions. The result was a manufacturable prototype designed to help Footprint Zero move closer to market with a safer, more effective recycling solution.

Footprint Zero

Ivan Arbouzov

Chief Executive Officer