An innovative waste-tracking technology employing radio frequency ID (RFID) and global positioning system (GPS) technology developed by a Limerick firm is set to double community recycling rates across the US.
Technology developed by Advanced Manufacturing Control Systems (AMCS), which will be used by municipal waste departments and private waste collectors, is already credited with more than doubling community recycling rates in areas where it has been deployed.
AMCS uses RFID along with GPS tracking, digital mapping and bi-directional communications systems.
When deployed, an RFID chip in each recycling bin is weighed and communicates with back-office information management systems, allowing the company to track the recycling activity of residents in an area.
The technology can also be used to charge residents and commercial customers for the exact amount of waste they send to landfill.
“Increasing recycling rates requires the deployment of creative new strategies and technologies in the waste management industry,” said Austin Ryan, business development director of AMCS.
“We have developed a suite of advanced waste-management tracking solutions that are bringing new efficiencies to waste-management activities in Ireland, the UK and Scandinavia.
“Now we’re enthusiastic to bring this technology to the US by partnering with an innovative local recycling leader. The US represents a great opportunity for us to grow our business, while simultaneously helping US companies and consumers improve their efficiencies and reduce the impact of waste on the environment,” Ryan added.
By John Kennedy
