Green AI Technology, a start-up established in June 2023 and spun off from the Hong Kong Productivity Council, is set to launch an AI-driven smart collection bin in early 2025 aimed at enhancing recycling efforts in Hong Kong. This innovative bin will sort waste into four categories: plastic bottles, aluminum cans, drinks cartons, and general refuse. The CEO, Cola Lam, emphasizes the importance of accurate waste composition data for sustainability reporting, highlighting the need for improved recycling practices in the city [b16d9300].
Hong Kong's solid waste recovery rate was recorded at 32% in 2022, with a target to increase this figure to 40-45% by 2035. This goal reflects the city's ambition to catch up with European nations like Germany, which boasts a recovery rate of 60-70% [b16d9300]. Green AI Technology has already filed patent applications for its sorting technology and developed a comprehensive database containing 500,000 data points on waste sorting, showcasing its commitment to innovation in waste management [b16d9300].
In a related development, Veolia has also embraced AI technology by installing an AI-driven robotic arm at its Southwark Integrated Waste Management Facility in London. This robotic arm can identify and separate various recyclable materials, significantly improving sorting efficiency by picking between 35 and 50 items per minute. The collaboration with Recycleye aims to enhance the facility's operations and increase the amount of recyclable materials processed [3ad896dc].
The integration of AI in recycling processes is becoming a global trend, with companies like Green AI and Veolia leading the charge. These advancements not only enhance operational efficiency but also contribute to the broader goal of promoting a circular economy and sustainable waste management practices. As technology continues to evolve, the future of recycling looks promising, with increased accuracy and effectiveness in diverting waste from landfills [3ad896dc].