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Project title

Shrinking the Circularity Loop for Plastics Recycling and Reuse

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

Sensi

Lead Applicant

James Devitt

Project Abstract

This project is directed at optimising the circularity loop for Plastics Recycling and Reuse, thereby ensuring higher rates of both recycling and reuse whilst minimising leakage and other negative by-products of traditional attempts at implementing circularity. This will be achieved by utilising a combination of new and maturing Visual AI (Object recognition) and IOT technologies. Traditional recycling circularity is primarily concerned with ensuring that as much as possible of the product can be recycled. On the other hand, our goal here is to move beyond this initial concern and to focus also on the efficiency of the circularity loop. We believe that the tighter the loop the more efficient it will be and consequently the more successful the circularity effort will be. Consider 2 traditional circularity loops such as (1) A government regulated DRS and (2) A Mixed Dry Recycling scheme such as operates In Ireland at present. Each of these schemes achieve some degree of circularity (option 1 is better, but requires significantly higher levels of investment and regulation) Each of these schemes also have some degree of leakage (again option 1 is better, with significantly less leakage) Our goal is to offer a new approach that achieves performance close to a regulated DRS scheme, but with much lower levels of investments required. The new approach we are proposing uses Smart Reverse Vending Machines (SRVMs) which may be used as part of regulated DRS schemes or as part of independently run DRS schemes. Further the nature of the new approach is that the technology lends itself to rapid adoption of new classes of items. Features of new SRVMs being proposed include: Visual AI recognition of Items presented for Recycling (or Reuse) Latched openings that only open for approved and validated items Highly engaging and interactive and educational interface Configurable Vouchers and Rewards to incentivise good recycling behaviour Anti fraud technologies and Fill level monitoring Full cloud connectivity enabling management of logistics and servicing Optional granulation/compaction for suitable recyclable items, thereby achieving 10x capacity All of the above can be delivered at a fraction of the cost of traditional RVMs The ultimate goal of this project is to use the new SRVMs to implement a maximally efficient circularity loop. In the case of Recycling items, the circularity loop incorporates the following features: SRVM accepts ONLY valid items, and offers Incentives for use SRVM incorporates internal granulation. This enables high capacity storage. When combined with remote fill-level monitoring, this allows for optimal service logistics Material collected by SRVMs is of suitable standard to proceed directly for re-processing See APPLICATION FORM for graphic illustrating the shrinking of the Circularity Loop This project will build upon existing prototype SRVM developed by Sensi for initial trials. Further development is required to optimise performance, add granulation/compaction capabilities and to enhance customer engagement features. In addition, research is required to ensure the establishment of suitable logistics capabilities that can ensure minimal leakage in the circularity loop.

Grant Approved

�93,723.00

Research Hub

Cleaner Production - Green Enterprise - Innovation and Demonstration

Research Theme

n/a

Start Date

06/12/2021

Initial Projected Completion Date

05/03/2023