Several attempts have been made to incorporate the practice of manual source segregation among citizens but has failed in the long run due to several reasons. Automated waste sorting technology is a base of the pyramid solution, which is several times efficient than manual sorting and helps create proper waste streams for further treatment and utilisation. Proper segregation and streamlining of waste can reduce the burden at dumpsites and landfills tremendously.

Although the concept of automation popped up in the developed countries during the early 1980s, lack of proper technology lead to its failure and again the authorities had to focus on citizens to do source segregation. The advancement of Infrared Technology and Artificial Intelligence in the recent past has led to the new generation of ‘Automated Waste Sorting Technology’ (AWST) where sensor based identification of different waste streams is utilised to segregate the waste.

Unlike other automated processes where the machines follow a definite set of algorithm to repeat a specific number of steps in a sequential manner, segregation of MSW is a much more complex process as the waste composition and characteristics in each batch differs. AWST uses a combination of Infrared sensors or X-ray scanners along with application of Artificial Intelligence to segregate the waste depending upon their density, light absorption factor and several other factors. The materials moving over a conveyer belt are scanned for their physical and chemical properties and then separated using a jet of air, magnets robotic arms or combination of these methods which are controlled by computers.

The technology was initially developed for segregation of Construction & Demolition Waste (C&D Waste) but later modified for segregation of waste into several other categories. Although the technology is in its infant stages, it brings hope of a better waste management system. Though implemented in the developed world, its scope is much more in developing countries like India, taking into consideration the major urbanisation which is considered to happen in the very near future. In addition to the municipal solid waste application of the technology, its application in C&D waste management is much more critical in India taking into account that more than 70% of the infrastructure requirements in India are yet to be built by 2030. The technology also helps segregation of critical waste elements including hazardous waste and electronic waste from the mainstream without manual sorting which all the more makes the segregation more efficient.

In addition, the sorted waste streams also gives more business opportunities using recovered materials and helps in resource savings. The technology bears multiple fruits as it allows segregation and collection of several waste fractions together as it saves time, reduces labor intensity and helps save valuable resources. Above all, it reduces health hazards to the sanitary workers who manually handle the waste during segregation, usually without proper personal protective equipments.