Yeonggwang-gun Operates AI-Based Unmanned Can and PET Bottle Collection Machines

Yeonggwang-gun, Jeollanam-do, operates an AI-based unmanned collection machine for cans and PET bottles.

According to the county on the 7th, ‘Sseutech’ is a compound word of garbage and financial technology. When cans and transparent PET bottles are inserted into the unmanned collection machine, 10 points (10 won) per recyclable item are credited to a transportation card (Cashbee) or the mobile app ‘Kaengaru’.

AI can and PET bottle unmanned collection machine. [Photo by Yeonggwang-gun]

The transportation card can be used immediately, and points accumulated in the mobile app can be converted into cash via bank transfer starting from 2,000 points, providing motivation for proper waste separation.

Items that can be inserted into the unmanned collection machine include beverage cans (excluding canned food cans or damaged cans) and transparent PET bottles.

Transparent PET bottles must be clean, with labels and contents removed, and the machine recognizes bottles ranging from 500 ml to 2 liters.

The AI can and PET bottle unmanned collection machine is equipped with deep learning algorithm technology, enabling it to sort and return contaminated, labeled, or colored recyclables through the return slot.

Additionally, the sorted recyclables are compressed and can store about 800 items.

A county official said, “We plan to implement diverse and proactive policies to promote a proper waste separation culture,” adding, “We hope residents actively participate in creating a beautiful Yeonggwang by practicing small environmental protection efforts in daily life through proper recycling separation.”

Yeonggwang = Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Lee Jeonseong baekok@asiae.co.kr