CSIRO unveils recycling-boosting technologies

CSIRO has taken the opportunity to showcase some recycling innovations during this year’s National Science Week, which started 13 August and runs until 21 August.

The Smart Bin Technology, developed with the University of Technology Sydney, uses Internet of Things (IoT), sensors, robotics, AI and infrared spectroscopy to sort recycling into specific sorts of plastic, metal and glass.

The proof-of-concept device is designed to improve recycling and reduce contamination in waste streams. Currently, NSW only recycles about 10% of the 800,000 tonnes of plastic waste it produces each year.

CSIRO also supports turning waste into a resource. Victorian small business Casafico creates commercial construction materials from recycled glass, newspaper and polystyrene, much of which is sourced through online waste exchange marketplace ASPIRE, which spun out of CSIRO in 2013.

CSIRO Chief Executive Dr Larry Marshall said development of new technologies was central to the organisation’s collaborative mission to end plastic waste, with a goal to reduce plastic waste entering the environment by 80% by 2030.

“Solutions from science that will grow our circular economy take collaboration at every stage of the innovation process — from understanding plastics at a molecular level to reinvent the way plastic is used, made and recycled, through to commercialising solutions that use new technologies like this Smart Bin, which is now in discussions to go to market, and spinning out new companies like ASPIRE to grow new circular economy jobs,” Marshall said.

“Science can transform our economy into a circular one that renews and reuses what we previously discarded, creates higher paid jobs, advances new Australian technology and protects our environment, while inspiring the next generation with what’s possible — during National Science Week and throughout the year.”

CSIRO Principal Research Scientist Wei Ni said: “Smart Bin Technology could be used at venues like shopping centres, schools, cinemas, coffee shops and airports. It will improve recycling rates because it is so easy to use and could ensure that materials can be recovered for reuse.”

UTS researcher Professor Ren Ping Liu said: “Working with CSIRO, we have developed the latest IoT and AI technologies to build this amazing Smart Bin. It can simplify the recycling process and improve efficiency for waste classification and sorting. The Smart Bin will help to promote the circular economy and contribute to a carbon neutral future.”

Casafico Head of Communications Samantha Mucci said: “Sourcing waste materials through Aspire helps us to become carbon positive, to save scarce natural resources and divert waste away from landfill.

“We can’t underestimate how small changes can make a huge difference. It’s great to see the next generation are learning that.”

Image credit: iStock.com/lukbar