New technology leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) is prompting homeowners in Central Okanagan to reconsider what they place in their curbside garbage and recycling bins. Chad Evans, a recycling truck driver, notes an alarming trend: hazardous materials are frequently found in the bin. On any given day, he estimates that about one in ten bins contain these dangerous items. The Regional District of Central Okanagan (RDCO) is addressing this issue with the implementation of a new system called “Prairie Robotics.” This innovative technology involves mounted cameras that capture images of materials entering the recycling trucks, allowing for better monitoring and management of waste contamination.
The Prairie Robotics system operates by taking hundreds, if not thousands, of photos as the bin is emptied into the recycling truck. Brody Hawkins, the district manager for Environmental 360 Solutions (E360s), the company handling curbside pickup for the RDCO, explains that these images are sent back to a central system where AI analyzes them for contamination. This capability enables the technology not only to identify problematic materials but also to track these items back to the originating homes, thereby increasing accountability for residents who misuse the recycling system.
To manage contamination issues effectively, the RDCO utilizes GPS coordinates from the garbage bins to determine the specific addresses associated with the identified hazardous materials. Once an infraction is detected, an information postcard is mailed to the respective address. This postcard serves as both a warning and an educational tool, providing homeowners with photographs showing what was improperly disposed of and additional information on acceptable recycling practices. Cynthia Coates, the RDCO’s supervisor of solid waste services, emphasizes that persistent offenders may face fines, stressing the importance of compliance for community safety and environmental health.
The types of hazardous materials frequently found in curbside bins range from corrosive and flammable items to batteries and electronic devices. Coates highlights that less obvious items such as e-cigarettes, power tools, and smoke alarms are also contributing to contamination issues. Of particular concern are items like propane tanks, which are increasingly found in the waste stream. Coates reports a rise in notifications regarding fires both at the landfill and during collection processes, stressing the urgency of addressing this growing problem to ensure safety in both recycling facilities and communities.
The dangers associated with this contamination have been underscored by recent incidents, such as a fire within a recycling truck hopper in Kelowna, which was traced back to a metal fuel filter disposed of improperly. This incident not only jeopardized the safety of the driver and the community but also illustrated the critical need for effective monitoring and education regarding waste disposal practices. Currently, four of the seven E360s recycling trucks are equipped with the new AI technology, with plans to implement the system in the remaining vehicles in the near future, reinforcing the RDCO’s commitment to safer and more sustainable waste management.
As the implementation of AI technology becomes increasingly widespread in the Central Okanagan, residents are encouraged to be proactive in understanding and adhering to waste disposal guidelines. The integration of these innovative tools aims to foster a more responsible approach to recycling in the community, ultimately reducing hazardous contamination and enhancing public safety. The RDCO’s foresight in employing such advanced technology demonstrates a strong commitment to protecting both the environment and the health of its residents, paving the way for cleaner and safer local ecosystems.
