Recycling Knowledge Gets a Boost with AI-based GreenScanr
March 10, 2025 |
What if we could increase our recycling knowledge with the quick scan of our phones?
That’s the idea behind GreenScanr, a technology solution developed by Richmond’s Data Company One.
GreenScanr aims to better many aspects of the recycling process. It has three parts: a database powered by artificial intelligence, a smartphone app and recycling stations that bring the technology to public spaces.
“We understand the importance of recycling and sustainability for our communities, now more than ever,” said Justin Showalter, a business development associate with Data Company One. “We also understand that recycling can be confusing. We developed GreenScanr to be a tool that not only provides the guidance and education needed to recycle with confidence but also empowers people to make more sustainable choices. We find that providing people with engaging technology is the best way to produce true, meaningful impact.”
The app
By using the GreenScanr smartphone app, consumers can learn whether an item is recyclable — either by scanning its barcode or taking a photo of the item. The AI-based tool is trained to recognize thousands of images and brand logos.
This is where the fun starts. The app turns recycling into a game that earns users points for each recyclable scanned. A leaderboard shows how they rank against others using the app.
Users can view the number of individual commodities they’ve scanned (such as paper, aluminum and plastic), the weight of all their recyclables and CO₂ avoidance achieved.
Recycling stations
GreenScanr also offers a recycling station, which invites people to scan their bottles, cans and other waste in public places. The station is equipped with a large screen, camera and barcode scanner. The technology is placed alongside a waste-sorting system such as trash, recycling and compost containers.
With each scan, the AI system collects 24 different data points about the item in order to recommend where it should go. Related tips and fun facts flash on the screen, such as, “Recycled aluminum cans can be back on the shelf as new cans in 60 days!”
GreenScanr recycling stations have been used at Busch Gardens, at Richmond Kickers games and at VCU basketball games. Data Company One is working to expand the product throughout Virginia and nationally.
GreenScanr in action
At a February meeting in Ashland, the CVWMA Board of Directors heard a presentation from Data Company One and got a glimpse of GreenScanr in action. A recycling station is permanently set up inside the Dominion Energy Innovation Center in the heart of the town.
“It was very neat to see the recycling scanner in action, especially for identifying all the different materials out there that consumers are unsure about,” said CVWMA Board Member Elizabeth Hall, who represents the City of Richmond. “It would be great to recycle more and contaminate less at Richmond’s events. Information tools, like GreenScanr, could help support our community moving in that positive direction.”
For more information, go to www.datacompanyone.com/greenscanr.
Category: News