PREP, a standalone application for sustainable packaging, offered its functionality solely through direct login to a website. When federal government initiatives increased the availability of sustainable packaging resources for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), PREP Design and APCO identified the need to expand access via a new API layer for third-party applications.
PREP Design chose Fitzroy IT as their trusted partner for their expertise in software development and serverless frameworks such as AWS Lambda and API Gateway, which aligned perfectly with the requirements for the project. This expertise ensured that Fitzroy IT could provide reliable, effective solutions on-time and on-budget.
Collaborating with PREP Design and APCO, Fitzroy IT architected and developed a suite of APIs to enable SMEs and packaging suppliers to leverage PREP’s functionality through third-party applications. This expanded access allows users to develop sustainable packaging solutions and obtain the Australian Recycling Label (ARL). SMEs can then utilise these solutions via third-party platforms, streamlining packaging design and ensuring compliance with sustainability standards.
The APIs utilise token-based authentication and are deployed on AWS, ensuring robust security measures protect PREP's data, while enabling seamless integration with third-party applications. The APIs are easy to use, are thoroughly documented, and are designed with performance and security in mind.
The API in Action:
The APCO ARL Marketplace (ARLM) is the first third-party application to make use of the new APIs. The ARLM connects packaging solution providers with SMEs, offering SMEs access to a wider range of packaging options while emphasising sustainability. Through the ARLM, SMEs have access to a catalogue of pre-designed packaging solutions that they can customise to suit their specific needs and products, all while ensuring high recyclability.
For example, consider a hypothetical small-business, PureEssence. PureEssence is committed to sustainability, and seeks to package their products in eco-friendly materials. However, navigating the complex landscape of sustainable packaging options can be challenging for a small team with limited resources.
Through the ARLM platform, PureEssence can easily browse, compare, and purchase eco-friendly packaging options from various suppliers, gaining access to a curated marketplace of sustainable packaging solutions tailored to their needs. This streamlines the procurement process, allowing them to focus on their core business activities while still prioritising sustainability. This integration enhances PureEssence's ability to package products sustainably, boosting their brand reputation, and attracting eco-conscious customers. Simultaneously, packaging suppliers gain visibility and access to a broader market, driving sales of sustainable products. Overall, this integration empowers businesses to make environmentally conscious packaging choices, contributing to a greener future.
The project's focus is on integrating the functionality of PREP with the ARLM platform hosted by APCO. This integration makes it easier for packaging suppliers and SMEs to list and access sustainable packaging solutions through the marketplace. By streamlining the process, the integration seeks to empower businesses to make more environmentally conscious choices in their packaging practices.
The ARLM is live and can be accessed at: 
Sustainable Packaging - Australasian Recycling Label (ARL) Marketplace
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