In Virginia, AI May Help Improve Recycling, Repurpose Waste
In Virginia, AI May Help Improve Recycling, Repurpose Waste
Publish Date: 2026-02-03 17:32:00
Source Domain: www.govtech.com
- The South Hampton Roads region’s landfill is filling up quickly, and a long-term waste disposal solution is needed.
- Commonwealth Sortation (AMP), a Colorado-based company, has been awarded a 25-year contract by the Southeastern Public Service Authority (SPSA) to process and sort the region’s waste and recycling materials.
- AMP aims to increase the diversion of waste from the landfill, extending its capacity to 2095 instead of 2060, targeting a waste diversion rate of around 50% and a minimum recycling rate of 20%, significantly higher than the current roughly 7%.
- AMP utilizes advanced artificial intelligence technology to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of recycling and repurposing of waste, significantly reducing the need for manpower.
- The facility in Portsmouth uses a complex process involving shredding, size sorting, and AI-based identification and sorting of materials, with the remainder sent straight to the landfill.
- Organic waste will eventually be sent to a new facility where it will be converted into biochar, a charcoal-like product that can be used in various industrial applications, thereby capturing methane and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- The partnership is estimated to represent a $200 million investment, creating at least 120 jobs and providing environmental, economic, and community benefits.
