Prairie Robotics Installs AI Tech to Bay City, Mich. Recycling Trucks

Bay City, Mich. is partnering with organizations to launch an initial, six-month pilot project to improve recycling in the city through the power of AI.

Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), The Recycling Partnership, and Prairie Robotics are partnering with the city to install cameras, GPS, and computers on city recycling trucks. This technology will check the contents of curbside recycling bins and offer constructive feedback to residents if needed.

The education sent to households from Prairie Robotics’ technology will help households with recycling efficiency.

“Public education is critical because when wrong items are inadvertently placed in the recycling cart, they can injure workers at the recycling facility, lower the quality of good recyclables, and damage sorting equipment,” said Bay City Environmental Services Manager James Blake.

Grant funding is supporting the program, with more than $50,000 provided by EGLE, and technical support from the Recycling Partnership.

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