EPD launches pilot programme for smart recycling system (with photos)

     To promote smart city development, the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) has launched a pilot programme for a smart recycling system, introducing smart recycling facilities in the community progressively to assess the local application of such a system. Currently, a Community Smart Recycling Vehicle (CSRV) is touring various districts to promote the smart recycling system, as well as the collection services for recyclables, including waste paper, plastic, metal, glass, fluorescent lamps and tubes, rechargeable batteries, small electrical appliances and regulated electrical equipment, provided by the EPD's community recycling facilities such as the Community Green Stations (CGSs) and the Community Recycling Centres (CRCs).
 
     A spokesman for the EPD said today (September 19), "During the initial phase of the pilot programme, the smart recycling system will be installed on the CSRV for collecting the four most common recyclables, namely waste paper, plastic, metal and glass. The CSRV is now travelling around various districts for the public to visit and try out the new system. The EPD's outreach teams for waste reduction and recycling will introduce the pilot programme and the smart recycling procedures to the public on-site.
 
     Unlike traditional recycling bins, the smart system can automatically measure and record the weight of recyclables collected and has an overflow alert installed, so as to enhance both bin usage and management efficiency. The smart bin's door is electrically operated, and the number of recycling bins and the types of recycling materials can be flexibly combined.
      
     "In the next phase of the pilot programme, the smart recycling system will also be set up in the Eastern CGS, the Tuen Mun CGS and two CRCs, and members of the public can then earn electronic bonus points for gift redemption through the system. After completing the community tour, the CSRV will also commence its operation as a mobile smart recycling point to provide recyclables collection services on fixed destination and time schedules. The CSRV, together with the CGSs and the CRCs, will help form a wider community recycling network," the spokesman added.
 
     Members of the public may refer to the touring schedule of the CSRV and try out the entire process of putting recyclables into the smart bins, earning bonus points and redeeming gifts. The CSRV's touring schedule is available on the EPD's Waste Reduction website (www.wastereduction.gov.hk/en/community_smart_recycling_vehicle.htm).