As the world population approaches ten billion, urban waste increases simultaneously. According to the World Bank, global annual waste generation is expected to jump to 3.4 billion tons over the next 30 years, up from 2.01 billion tons in 2016 (Schrader-King and Liu). Similar to the solution of almost all our problems, does technology assist us here too? Robotics might just be the efficient solution that can help us with tasks like sorting, collecting, and recycling waste. From improving speeds to reducing labour costs, enhanced resource recovery to precision in recycling, and less exposure to hazardous environments to health benefits, robotics have the potential to cater to many issues. However, this also has another side of the spectrum with job displacements, environmental implications, and high-cost issues. A holistic approach that integrates both technological advancements and ethical considerations is needed.

Robotic systems have significantly intensified efficiency in sorting and recycling. Traditional manual sorting methods are error-prone, leading to contamination and lower recycling rates. Robotics use advanced sensors, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to categorize waste materials more accurately than humans. They can distinguish between different papers, plastics, and metals, ensuring that recyclable materials are sorted accurately. For instance, ZenRobotics’ robots, Heavy Picker 4.0 and Fast Picker 4.0, use AI to analyse over 500 waste categories to sort bulky material and lightweight trash, respectively. These robots optimise recycling by reducing contamination and enhancing resource recovery (Rischar). Robots can operate continuously without fatigue, maintaining high levels of performance and consistency, resulting in higher recovery rates of recyclable materials and less waste in landfills.

Robotics also reduces hazardous waste exposure. “Robots are increasingly used to handle hazardous waste, enhancing safety and reducing the risk of human exposure to dangerous substances. They can be deployed in environments unsafe for humans, like nuclear waste disposal sites, chemical spill areas, and contaminated zones” (Singh). For example, robots can handle e-waste, which often contains harmful chemicals like lead, mercury, and cadmium. This reduces the risk of environmental contamination from improper disposal or leakage. Automated systems can handle waste more efficiently, leading to better recycling and disposal practices that minimise environmental impact.

Furthermore, working in the waste industry is one of the least in-demand jobs. According to a 2020 report, the occupation of waste management and environmental protection has a relatively low interest rate compared to other professions (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Robotics can address this issue by performing less desirable tasks to human workers and ensuring that waste management operations function efficiently and effectively. Automation allows the industry to function efficiently without depending on a workforce unwilling to engage in these roles.

However, robotics in waste management typically consume substantial energy. The continuous operation of these machines, particularly in large-scale waste processing facilities, results in high electricity usage. According to a 2021 report, industrial robots can consume up to 7 kWh per operation hour (International Federation of Robotics). The production and manufacturing of such robots require extracting raw materials and processing high-tech components, contributing to environmental harm. Additionally, robotics have a limited lifetime and need disposal after they are beyond repairs. Components like batteries and circuit boards contain hazardous materials that can contaminate the environment if improperly disposed of. In 2019, the world generated 53.6 Mt of e-waste, projected to grow to 74.7 Mt by 2030 (Forti et al.).

In summary, while robotics in waste management brings clear benefits like better efficiency and sorting, it also comes with environmental challenges. These include higher energy use and carbon emissions, which can diminish their environmental gains if not managed well. To ensure the advantages of automation are not outweighed by environmental issues, it’s essential to keep improving recycling practices, reducing energy use, and managing the overall impact of robotic systems throughout their lifecycle.

Works Cited

• Schrader-King, Liu. “Global Waste to Grow by 70 Percent by 2050 Unless Urgent Action is Taken: World Bank Report." World Bank Group. September 20, 2018. https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2018/09/20/global-waste-to-grow-by-70-percent-by-2050-unless-urgent-action-is-taken-world-bank-report
• Rischar. “ZenRobotics launches fourth generation of waste sorting robots." Recycling Today. February 14, 2024. https://www.recyclingtoday.com/news/zenrobotics-launches-fourth-generation-waste-sorting-robots/
• Singh. “The Integration of Robotics in Sustainable Waste Practices." AZORobotics. June 2, 2024. https://www.azorobotics.com/Article.aspx?ArticleID=695
• “Industries at a Glance." US Bureau of Labor Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/iag/tgs/iag56.htm#workforce
• “World Robotics 2021” International Federation of Robotics. October 28, 2021. https://ifr.org/downloads/press2018/2021_10_28_WR_PK_Presentation_long_version.pdf
• Forti, Vanessa, Balde, Cornelis P, Kuehr, Ruediger, Bel, Garam. “The Global E-waste Monitor 2020: Quantities, Flows, and the Circular Economy Potential." United Nations University. July 2, 2020. https://collections.unu.edu/view/UNU:7737