Tesco today announced it will be rolling out Britain's first fully automated recycling machines in a move that is set to boost the UK recycling market.
Using space-age technology, including infrared spectroscopes and a real-time camera, the machines will automatically sort through plastic, metal and glass at a rate of around 80 products per minute, taking the time and hassle factor out of recycling for customers.
The 100 new machines will compliment the existing 430 recycling facilities at Tesco stores across the UK. The new centres are expected to double the amount of recycling done at these stores.
David North, Community Director for Tesco said: "Our customers want to do their bit for the environment by recycling more. These machines make it as easy and convenient as possible for them. Recycling will now be fun, quick and easy to use."
How the machine works:
- Customers drop waste into the unit, which is then identified by a high-resolution camera, circulated on a conveyor system and then sorted into container bins.
- Plastic and aluminium is shredded by revolving high-speed knives moving at over 60km/h and glass is crushed by revolving throw-arms throwing bottles at an in-built stone wall.
- The machine automatically recognises that it is full and the material is then taken away. The units can hold roughly 4 times more than an equivalent standard unit meaning they have to be emptied less often - saving in transport and CO2.
Tesco has already received positive feedback after trials of the machines at 6 stores. Recycling increased by 50% within 2 months of their installation. The trial stores also found that the interactive machines appealed to children and encouraged them to take part in the recycling process.
The units are a ‘one-stop shop’ for recycling, accepting everything from paper, cardboard and carrier bags to glass, plastic and metal.
Terje Hanserud, Senior VP at TOMRA, commented: "We are excited that Tesco has chosen TOMRA as a partner and we are looking forward to working with them in bringing a more efficient and environmentally friendly way of recycling to the UK. "
Notes to Editors:
The new automated recycling centres will be rolled out throughout late 2006 and early 2007.
The UK has one of the lowest recycling rates in Europe.
