Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages, the regional Coca-Cola bottler for Texas and surrounding areas, and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) have installed four AI-powered recycling bins to improve waste management and sustainability at the airport.

Developed by SmartSort Technologies, the bins use cameras and artificial intelligence to scan items and guide users on proper disposal. Dual-stream units – separating waste and recyclables – are now available in Terminals D and E, while DFW’s Airport Headquarters and Department of Public Safety received triple-stream bins that also include a compost option.

The technology not only helps travellers dispose of items correctly in real time but also tracks data on recycling volumes and materials. This allows the airport to monitor its long-term sustainability performance.

Robert Horton, DFW’s VP of environmental affairs and sustainability department, said: “The introduction of AI-powered recycling bins enhances the traveler experience and reinforces our efforts to create a more sustainable airport through innovation and technology. Incremental steps like this can build better traveller habits that help reduce waste, increase recycling and engage our customers in new and exciting ways.”

Abraham Tueme, director of sustainability at Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages, added: “It takes time to create meaningful change, and our focus is on introducing long-term solutions that truly make a difference in reducing waste and promoting sustainability. Installing SmartSort units at DFW Airport allows us to advance recycling efforts in our community in a way that benefits both travelers and the local environment.”

Top image: © SmartSort Technologies