The Reclaim project introduces a low-cost, portable, and AI-driven robotic material recycling plant to address waste management challenges in remote areas or regions with fluctuating waste generation.

According to the Spanish Plastics Technology Center AIMPLAS, this technology will first be deployed in the Greek islands, to tackle the difficulties of large-scale infrastructure development in these areas.

AIMPLAS states that the Reclaim project uses multiple robots equipped with different types of sorting machines to effectively collect and process various types of waste based on their composition. Additionally, AI-driven computer vision can accurately identify waste, thereby improving the sorting efficiency of the robots. These technologies are integrated into a portable container, designed to increase the local material recovery rate.

The organization points out that the portable system can be deployed at different locations, allowing for material recycling near the source and expanding recycling opportunities to support a circular economy for plastics.

AIMPLAS indicates that it has contributed to the launch of the facility by defining the operational requirements of the equipment, evaluating available technological options to select the most suitable components, and overseeing the monitoring of key performance indicators (KPIs). AIMPLAS also proposed solutions and adjustments to ensure that the project meets its established goals.

Javier Grau, a mechanical recycling researcher at AIMPLAS involved in the project, says that remote islands, hard-to-reach rural areas, or regions with limited infrastructure are just some of the situations where this equipment can have a significant impact.

“Furthermore, the equipment can also serve as an ideal solution for large events such as festivals, concerts, or sports competitions, where a large amount of waste generated in one place needs to be processed immediately,” said Grau. “It can also complement existing recycling plants in tourist areas, which face significant population fluctuations during peak seasons.”

AIMPLAS Company

Distributed Recovery Suitable for Various Applications

The equipment is characterized by its compact design, integrated into an easily transportable container, allowing for quick deployment almost anywhere.

Grau notes that as recycling needs evolve, this portable equipment is expected to unlock new possibilities.

“For example, it can facilitate marine waste management in port areas, improve material sorting and separation, while reducing environmental impact,” he said. “Another relevant application is its potential to help existing sorting plants process bioplastics, which