Labor shortages and high staff turnover are pushing the recycling industry to explore automation and robotics as long-term solutions, the BBC reports.
In the U.K., a recycling facility in Rainham, east London, operated by Sharp Group, processes up to 280,000 tons of mixed recycling a year. Work at the site involves sorting a wide range of materials on fast-moving conveyor belts in conditions marked by dust, noise and safety risks. As a result, workers face higher rates of injury and ill health, contributing to staff turnover of around 40%.
To address these challenges, the company is trialing a humanoid robot, Alpha, developed by RealMan Robotics and adapted by TeknTrash Robotics. Unlike traditional automated systems, the robot is designed to replicate human movements, allowing it to operate within existing facilities without major redesign.
However, industry experts say there are no ready-to-use solutions yet and that extensive machine learning is still required. The robot is being trained to identify and handle waste materials using data collected from cameras and human demonstrations.
Other companies are pursuing different automation methods. For instance, AMP, an American provider of AI-powered waste-sorting systems, uses AI and air jets to sort materials, while Glacier develops robotic arms combined with AI to manage waste streams. Both approaches aim to increase speed, efficiency and accuracy compared to manual labor.
Although these technologies are still evolving, experts say automation is becoming essential. According to Marian Chertow of Yale University, the combination of robotics and AI has significant potential to improve efficiency, working conditions and economic performance in recycling.
Addressing concerns about job displacement, the Rainham plant operator says automation is unlikely to eliminate roles but may shift workers into positions such as maintaining and supervising robotic systems, while reducing exposure to hazardous conditions.
