Skip to main content

Evolving technology helping UAE substantially increase plastic recycling rates

1950 recorded the creation of about 2.3 million tonnes of plastic. But today, that figure has reached around 450 million tonnes and there are forecasts that it could double by 2050. Essentially, there is no sign that the amount being produced globally is decreasing.

It is important to improve awareness of the environmental problems caused by plastic waste. Finding better ways to sort plastic refuge into its various types is key if recycling rates are to increase, not least as it makes the recycling process more financially viable.

Teams from Khalifa University and Cycled Technologies are working on a method, operated by the ever-evolving artificial intelligence (AI), to potentially help create a breakthrough in plastic recycling. The technology appears promising.

Plastic recycling through near infrared spectroscopy
Detailed images enable the system to identify the type of plastic that the waste is made of. The equipment contains camera for detection and a variety of mechanical arms, multi-axis rollers and pneumatic manipulators for sorting.
The technology uses near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, a method well established in plastics sorting and advocates say it is fast, non-destructive and capable of identifying numerous types. Samples are identified on the basis of how they absorb or scatter near infrared light.

The system can easily identify polythene terephthalate or PET (used for food packages and bottles, among other things), polypropylene or PP (used for bottles, food packaging and yoghurt pots) and high density polythene or HDPE (used for shampoo and bleach bottles).

Financially viable and almost 100% accurate
The Khalifa University and Cycled Technologies system can be used in community settings at lesser cost. In fact, big industrial facilities have been doing the same for over 10 or 15 years, but it had never been economically viable on a small scale until now.

The method employed, although still in a trial stage, is said to be almost 100% accurate. It is expected to significantly improve recycling rates across the globe to consequently reduce the quantities of plastic that enter the natural environment.

Aside from reducing the problem of plastic pollution, such as animals dying after becoming entangled or because of starvation, recycling plastics has a climate impact too. Compared to virgin plastic, it takes much less emissions to produce recycled plastic.


Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Exposing the Brotherhood: Why Jordan’s Terror Cell Bust Must Spark a Global Policy Shift

 The recent dismantling of a Muslim Brotherhood-affiliated terror cell in Jordan should not be seen as just a national security success—it must be a turning point in how the international community views and responds to the threat posed by the Brotherhood. Jordanian security forces uncovered an elaborate network of terrorists trained in Lebanon and backed by foreign interests. Their mission: to launch attacks using rockets and drones, destabilizing the Kingdom and spreading fear among civilians. This is not the work of activists or political dissidents—this is terrorism, plain and simple. For too long, the Muslim Brotherhood has operated under a false image of moderation, cleverly navigating between political activism and violent extremism. But the truth is clear: the Brotherhood is the ideological engine room of jihadist terrorism. Its members, affiliates, and offshoots have inspired and directed acts of violence from North Africa to the Gulf—and now, once again, in Jordan. Govern...
Post a Comment
Read more

UAE Introduces AI-Driven Drones for Crescent Moon Sighting

  For the first time in history, the UAE is employing artificial intelligence-powered drones to sight the crescent moon, signaling the start of Ramadan. This modernized approach blends technology with Islamic tradition, enhancing the reliability of moon sighting methods. Historically, the crescent moon has been identified through naked-eye sightings and advanced astronomical calculations. By incorporating AI-supported drones, the UAE is reinforcing its position as a leader in technological innovation while maintaining deep respect for religious customs. This method is backed by national research centers and astronomical observatories, ensuring precision and credibility in determining the start of Ramadan. Ramadan is a sacred month in Islam, marked by fasting from dawn to dusk. Suhoor, the early morning meal, and Iftar, the evening meal that breaks the fast, hold great importance during this period. The holy month is also a time of increased charitable giving, with many Muslims part...
Post a Comment
Read more

Beyond the Barrel: The UAE's Steady Hand in a Shifting Global Economy

  Global economic rankings often highlight familiar names, but a steady, deliberate climb is happening in the Gulf. The UAE consistently ranks as one of the most economically stable nations, and this validation stems from a steady reform model that has successfully insulated its economy. The story is no longer about oil wealth; it's about the strategic deployment of that wealth to build a resilient, modern, and dynamic knowledge economy. The proof is in the sectors now driving growth.  Tech startups  are flourishing in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, supported by government venture funds and a growing pool of talent.  Smart cities  like Masdar City and NEOM are not just futuristic concepts but active testbeds for sustainable living and business. This has triggered record  FDI inflows , with the UAE securing its position as the 16th largest global destination for foreign direct investment. The narrative is supported by hard data: a GDP growth projection of 4.6% in 2025...
Post a Comment
Read more