Keeling Curve

Primary Project Category:

Secondary Project Category:

Project Summary / Description:

TrashBot was created for the purpose of making recycling simpler while recovering more materials. By eliminating errors in the public‚ decision-making process, TrashBot recovers circular materials with 95% accuracy, meaning less waste going to landfills.

Our smart recycling bin diverts recyclables from landfill using AI, robotics, computer vision, and machine learning. TrashBot diverts recyclables and delivers high-quality data on a facility‚ waste, which can inform decision-making and boost sustainability programs. 

Today, most recycling bins‚ contents end up in landfills, according to the EPA, the recycling and composting rate is at a low 32%. In addition to a lack of recycling education, signage is ineffective and waste audits are inefficient.

Charles Yhap co-founded CleanRobotics in 2015 after experiencing frustration and confusion over which trash bin to use at his local grocery store. TrashBot was created to eliminate this problem in high-traffic areas where people dispose of waste without much thought.

Regions of Operations:

How Project Affects Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions:

Reduces GHGs (e.g., projects that reduce sources of GHGs, such as through efficiency or other changes in consumption)

Best Estimate of GHG Avoidance/Reduction of This Project (Tonnes CO2 Equivalent/Year):

Impact on Underrepresented Groups:

By automating waste sorting, TrashBot makes recycling more accessible for people with disabilities who might struggle to use traditional waste receptacles and comprehend complex rules. Additionally, there are people who historically come from disadvantaged communities or places where a culture for waste management, recycling, and carbon reduction hasn't been successfully propagated. TrashBot allows them to participate and contribute. Our educational platform allows underrepresented groups to become increasingly informed on things that will make a difference. By automating the process and providing education on recycling, we are able to empower them to improve their impact.

Sub-Categories:

Mission Statement:

CleanRobotics' team is distributed throughout the United States and Mexico and deploys and services TrashBots nationwide. We are also beginning to break into international markets.