Vancouver International Airport has introduced an AI-enabled smart waste bin pilot program in a bid to become a leader in environmental management. The program is being undertaken with Intuitive AI, a Vancouver-based technology company.
Known as Oscar, the smart bin leverages a combination of robotics, machine learning and computer vision to detect and accurately route disposed items into the correct waste category. Vancouver has currently invested in three smart bins, which are located throughout the terminal.
The bin system includes a 32in display screen and an AI-powered camera that automatically identifies recycling from trash and instructs users on whether it belongs in the containers, compost, paper or landfill stream. The technology enables Oscar to differentiate between items that are partly obscuring one another and prioritize which ones to instruct users about first.
“Understanding that our passengers come from around the world with different waste sorting systems, one of the challenges we face is ensuring waste is correctly sorted at waste bins located throughout the terminal. As such, we’re constantly looking at creative approaches to waste management,” said Shaye Folk-Blagbrough, senior environmental specialist, Vancouver Airport Authority.
“We’re thrilled to work with Intuitive AI and welcome Oscar to the airport. In a short amount of time, we’ve seen the positive impact Oscar has had on our waste diversion program at YVR. Aiding our passengers with waste sorting through artificial intelligence is an innovative way of improving the airport’s environmental footprint through technology.”