Radio-frequency identification technology (RFID) uses electromagnets to automatically detect and organise things from a distance. In this case – waste bins. This has the potential to unlock new increases recycling rates, as we can suddenly compile vast amount of data on what’s being recycled, in what quantities, where, and which demographics are recycling the most.
For instance, if we can determine what areas and to what extent people are willing to walk further to a recycling bin, we can optimise the distribution of bins in order to get more people recycling, without even thinking about it. We think that’s pretty nifty, anyway.