SEATTLE (Recycling Monster): The approval of the Metro Council is pending for a new pilot program that would monitor recycling in Davidson County using artificial intelligence techniques. It is anticipated that the state-funded pilot scheme will stop massive amounts of recyclables from ending up in landfills each year.

In order to scan various materials as they are being disposed of, waste management trucks will be equipped with cameras. Plastic bags are among the things it detects as potentially slowing down the material recovery facilities' separation process.

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Metro Councilwoman At-Large Burkley Allen, co-sponsor in favour of the grant noted that she supports the bill to accept a grant for purchase of new recycling carts and software for identifying contamination. The state will contribute money to match Metro's $190,000 investment. Nashville may be able to meet its recycling target if the suggested AI technology helps the city cut down on trash.

If authorized, the government intend to test the effectiveness of the AI system by installing it on three vehicles for a year.

In the meantime, on November 16 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., the Tennessee Environmental Council (TEC) will hold their final Recycling Roundup of 2024 in Lebanon at Castle Height Elementary School. The public is welcome to attend the free event.

The TEC estimates that every year, around $180,000 worth of recyclables end up in landfills.