GREENSBORO, N.C. — A new pilot program utilizing smart camera technology on City recycling trucks now provides personalized recycling feedback to some Greensboro residents. Funded by a Community Waste Reduction and Recycling grant from the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NC DEQ), this initiative aims to enhance curbside recycling by identifying contamination and educating residents in real-time.
The program is a collaboration between the City of Greensboro, NC DEQ, and Prairie Robotics. Smart cameras installed on three recycling trucks use visual recognition software and GPS to detect non-recyclable items in curbside bins.
How It Works
- As recycling is collected, smart cameras scan for contaminants such as plastic bags, garbage, yard waste, or Styrofoam.
- If a contaminant is detected, a photo is taken inside the truck’s hopper, highlighting the non-recyclable item.
- A personalized postcard is then sent to the resident with educational information about proper recycling practices.
This technology enhances Greensboro’s existing recycling contamination tagging program by automating the process. While there are no fines or fees associated with the program, repeat contamination may result in the removal of a resident’s recycling cart…