It is understandable that many workers are concerned about the potential impact of AI on their jobs. However, AI also has the capacity to handle tasks that are often considered undesirable by humans, as demonstrated in a recent article highlighting its role in the recycling process.
The recycling industry nationwide is facing significant labor shortages, with jobs in waste management often involving unpleasant tasks, as reported by The Wall Street Journal.
AI technology is now being utilized in recycling facilities to segregate biodegradable materials. By leveraging AI and robotics, some facilities have successfully mitigated the effects of worker shortages, with certain establishments having as many as 20% of positions unfilled. Moreover, machines have proven to be more effective than human workers in sorting recyclables in some instances.
Unlike human workers, AI-powered systems do not require breaks or vacations, enabling them to work continuously. Suzanne Jones, the executive chairman of Eco-Cycle, noted that these systems can even operate in two shifts.
In terms of efficiency, AI often outperforms human workers in identifying recyclable materials. The Journal reports that AI bots can sort through 80 items of recyclable material per minute, surpassing the capabilities of human workers who typically manage 50 to 80 items within the same timeframe. Visual sorters, as highlighted in The Journal, can process up to 1,000 items of recycled trash per minute, surpassing both human workers and AI-powered bots.
The advancements in AI technology extend beyond recycling to other industries that require physical labor. For example, Chipotle has introduced a machine named Hyphen that can prepare burrito bowls and salads, while a Chick-fil-A location has incorporated Wall-E, a delivery robot, to enhance customer service. Major chains like Domino’s, McDonald’s, and White Castle are also leveraging AI to streamline their ordering processes.
While blue-collar jobs are traditionally considered less susceptible to full automation by AI, the landscape of recycling facilities and restaurants may evolve due to AI integration. The primary impact of AI is expected to be felt in white-collar industries such as software development, law, and finance, where certain tasks may be automated, altering the nature of these professions without necessarily leading to wholesale job replacement.
