Greensboro Introduces Smart Camera System to Enhance Recycling Efforts

Image source: Prairie Robotics

Published on March 11, 2025

The city of Greensboro has launched a pilot program using smart camera technology on recycling trucks to improve the quality of curbside recycling. Funded by a grant from the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NC DEQ), the initiative aims to reduce contamination by identifying non-recyclable items and providing residents with real-time feedback.

The program, developed in partnership with Prairie Robotics, equips three recycling trucks with smart cameras that use visual recognition software and GPS to detect contaminants like plastic bags, garbage, yard waste, and Styrofoam. When contamination is found, the system captures an image of the item and sends the resident a postcard with educational information on proper recycling practices.

This technology automates the city’s existing contamination tagging system, though no fines or fees are imposed. However, repeated violations may lead to the removal of a resident’s recycling cart. The program focuses solely on identifying contaminated items and began issuing postcards to residents this month.

For additional details, visit www.greensboro-nc.gov/RecycleSmart

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