SPOKANE, Wash. — Waste Management has unveiled significant technological upgrades at its Spokane Smart Center, revolutionizing how recyclables are processed in the Inland Northwest.
The facility, which already handles 220 tons of recyclable materials daily, is now equipped with advanced optical sorters and robotic systems that will substantially increase its processing capacity.
“The superstars of the technology upgrades are the optical sorters. We now have six of them,” said Joel Kohlsted, Partnership Manager of Waste Reduction and Innovation for WM.
These sophisticated optical sorters use light detection technology to identify and separate different materials moving along conveyor belts at remarkable speeds. The system can distinguish between glass, paper, metal, and various types of plastic, ensuring more accurate sorting than ever before.
“That speed allows us to process 37% more than what we’re currently doing, which will open the door for more recycling for the community in the future,” Kohlsted explained.
Inside the facility, the machinery creates a constant hum of activity as recyclables make their journey through the sorting process. Human workers still play a vital role, but the new technology is designed to handle the more physically demanding aspects of the job.
The addition of robots to the sorting line represents another significant advancement. These automated assistants work alongside human employees, taking on repetitive and strenuous tasks while improving overall efficiency.
“Anything that can reduce waste and increase recycling is an absolute win-win,” Kohlsted said.
After materials are sorted, they’re compiled into large bales before being sent to end markets where they’ll be transformed into new products. Some recyclables even come full circle – the fluorescent safety vests worn by WM employees are made from recycled materials processed at facilities like this one.
The timing of these upgrades is strategic. As the population in the Inland Northwest continues to grow, so does the volume of recyclable materials. The enhanced capacity ensures the facility can meet increasing demand for years to come.
“We’ll be able to meet the needs of the community to process more and more recyclables so that they can make their way to an end market to be made into something new,” Kohlsted said.
The Spokane facility improvements are part of a broader statewide initiative by Waste Management to enhance recycling infrastructure throughout Washington.
You can find out more information on recycling guidelines by clicking here.
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