MUSCAT: In a step reflecting advanced environmental awareness and the ability to harness modern technology in the service of society, students Al Reem al Issaee and Al Noura al Ajmi have developed a project titled "Waste Sorting Using Robots." The system uses robots, sensors, cameras, programming and artificial intelligence (AI) to automatically classify waste into categories such as plastic, paper, metals and glass.
The project aims to promote recycling by separating reusable materials, reducing reliance on manual sorting, raising environmental awareness among students and the community, and encouraging the use of modern technologies in waste management more efficiently and sustainably.
Al Reem said the idea came from observing the challenges of waste accumulation and manual sorting difficulties. The project offers a technological solution to improve recycling efficiency through a robot that identifies waste types and directs them to the appropriate container.
Using robots helps reduce mixed and contaminated waste and supports efforts to protect the environment and natural resources, she added.
Al Noura said the project is not limited to environmental benefits but also offers an applied educational experience combining science, technology, engineering and mathematics. It involved programming, sensor installation, motor control and problem‑solving.
She affirmed that the project developed creative thinking and teamwork skills, while opening the door to applying AI and computer vision to real‑world problems.
Project supervisor Asma al Farsi said the innovation lies at the intersection of modern technology and environmental protection, offering a practical model for how robots can serve society and fostering a culture of innovation and sustainable solutions.
Such projects help prepare students for future skills, instil awareness of recycling, and reduce health risks associated with direct handling of waste during manual sorting, she added. — ONA
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
