AI in Waste Management and Recycling Market Size was valued at USD 3.5 Bn in 2023 and is predicted to reach USD 15.9 Bn by 2031 at a 20.8% CAGR during the forecast period for 2024-2031.
The application of artificial intelligence (AI) to recycling and waste management has recently emerged as a key engine of development and innovation. The generation of waste is increasing along with the world's population, which presents severe obstacles to sustainable environmental practices and waste management. As a result, the industry's adoption of AI technologies has demonstrated encouraging outcomes in streamlining operations, improving recycling procedures, and lessening environmental impact overall. The optimization of waste collection routes is one of the significant uses of AI in waste management. Artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms can analyse real-time data from multiple sources, such as waste bin sensors and GPS trackers, to determine the most effective collection routes. IoT-enabled smart waste bins with AI capabilities have become a workable option for optimizing waste management. These smart containers can communicate real-time data to waste collection centres and track fill levels.
The market is driven by the growing need for environmentally friendly waste management solutions, the acceptance of AI in waste sorting and recycling, and the rising demand for waste management tools with AI capabilities. Government regulations that promote environmentally friendly waste management techniques and technical developments that make it possible to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into sophisticated waste management systems are driving the market's growth. Strategic AI integration improves operational effectiveness and advances the more general objectives of environmental sustainability.
Competitive Landscape
Some of the Major Key Players in the AI in Waste Management and Recycling Market are
- Waste Management, Inc.
- Veolia
- SUEZ
- Covanta Holding Corporation
- IBM Corporation
- Google LLC
- Microsoft Corporation
- Amazon Web Services, Inc.
- RecycleSmart
- ZenRobotics Ltd. (Terex Corporation)
- Tomra Systems ASA
- Enevo Oy
- Ecube Labs Co., Ltd.
- RoadRunner Recycling, Inc.
- Rubicon Technology
- AMP Robotics
- Waste Robotics
- Machinex Industries Inc.
- CleanRobotics Inc.
- Sortera Alloys
- Brain Corporation
- Bioelektra Group
- RecyGlo Limited
- Rezatec Limited
- Others
Market Segmentation:
The AI in waste management and recycling market is segmented on the basis of type, application, and end-user. Based on type, the market is segmented as machine learning-based AI solutions, computer vision-based AI solutions, natural language processing-based AI solutions, and robotics and automation in waste management. The market is segmented by application into waste sorting and segregation, recycling process optimization, waste collection route planning, predictive maintenance of recycling machinery, waste monitoring and analysis, smart bin technology, energy recovery from waste, landfill management, and monitoring. Based on end-users, the market is segmented into municipalities and local governments, waste management companies, recycling facilities and plants, the industrial and commercial sector, and the residential sector.
Based on Type, the Machine Learning-based AI Solutions Segment is Accounted as a Major Contributor to the AI in Waste Management and Recycling market.
AI solutions based on machine learning make it possible to analyze large amounts of data and identify patterns, which increases the efficiency and accuracy of garbage sorting. Through image processing technology, computer vision-based AI systems enable the identification and sorting of recyclable elements from mixed waste streams. Artificial Intelligence systems based on natural language processing help with garbage monitoring and collection route optimization by enabling improved textual data analysis and communication. Additionally, automated waste sorting is provided by robotics and automation in waste management, which lowers the need for human intervention and increases recycling productivity.
Waste Sorting and Segregation Segment Witnessed Growth at a Rapid Rate
AI's sophisticated algorithms and computer vision skills are beneficial to waste sorting and segregation since they allow for accurate waste type identification and separation for effective recycling. Another important application of AI is recycling process optimization, which uses data analysis to increase resource efficiency, decrease waste production, and improve recycling efficiency. Waste collection route planning optimizes collection routes using AI-driven analytics to ensure timely and economical waste pickup while lowering fuel and carbon emissions. Reducing downtime and increasing operational efficiency are two major benefits of predictive maintenance for recycling technology. It also helps prevent problems and optimize machinery performance.
In the Region, the North America AI in Waste Management and Recycling Market Holds a Significant Revenue Share.
Regarding AI in the waste management and recycling industry, North America dominated the market. Government regulations that promote environmentally friendly waste management techniques and technical developments that make it possible to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into sophisticated waste management systems are driving the market's growth. Strategic AI integration improves operational effectiveness and advances the more general objectives of environmental sustainability. Due to the European Union's implementation of various policies to promote recycling and reduce waste, including the waste framework directive and the circular economy package, the market is expanding rapidly in the European region.
Recent Developments:
- In October 2023, Clean Harbors released its sustainability supplement to coincide with the publication of its most recent sustainability report. The supplement also emphasizes how Clean Harbors' sustainability efforts benefit the environment, its clients, and the communities it works with.
- In September 2023, SUEZ announced the completion of two significant contracts in the waste and water sectors, helping China achieve its 2060 carbon neutrality target. Together, SUEZ and its longstanding partner in Chongqing built a new water treatment plant to increase the resilience of the water supply system. In Shanghai, the group launched its first-ever plastics recovery program in China.
AI in Waste Management and Recycling Market Report Scope
Report Attribute |
Specifications |
Market Size Value In 2023 |
USD 3.5 Bn |
Revenue Forecast In 2031 |
USD 15.9 Bn |
Growth Rate CAGR |
CAGR of 20.8% from 2024 to 2031 |
Quantitative Units |
Representation of revenue in US$ Bn and CAGR from 2024 to 2031 |
Historic Year |
2019 to 2023 |
Forecast Year |
2024-2031 |
Report Coverage |
The forecast of revenue, the position of the company, the competitive market structure, growth prospects, and trends |
Segments Covered |
By Type, By Application, By End-user |
Regional Scope |
North America; Europe; Asia Pacific; Latin America; Middle East & Africa |
Country Scope |
U.S.; Canada; U.K.; Germany; China; India; Japan; Brazil; Mexico; France; Italy; Spain; South East Asia; South Korea |
Competitive Landscape |
Waste Management, Inc., Veolia, SUEZ, Covanta Holding Corporation, IBM Corporation, Google LLC, Microsoft Corporation, Amazon Web Services, Inc., RecycleSmart, ZenRobotics Ltd. (Terex Corporation), Tomra Systems ASA, Enevo Oy, Ecube Labs Co., Ltd., RoadRunner Recycling, Inc., Rubicon Technology, AMP Robotics, Waste Robotics, Machinex Industries Inc., CleanRobotics Inc., Sortera Alloys, Brain Corporation, Bioelektra Group, RecyGlo Limited, Rezatec Limited, and Others. |
Customization Scope |
Free customization report with the procurement of the report and modifications to the regional and segment scope. Particular Geographic competitive landscape. |
Pricing And Available Payment Methods |
Explore pricing alternatives that are customized to your particular study requirements. |