In an effort to reduce hard-to-recycle waste and promote sustainable consumption, Cardiff (United Kingdom) has launched a pioneering pilot program that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to recycle used paper cups- the first initiative of its kind in the world. The program, a collaboration between local authorities, environmental organizations, and leading F&B brands, marks a significant step forward in smart urban recycling and sets an inspiring model for greener, smarter cities of the future.
AI Technology Used to Identify and Sort Used Paper Cups
In late April 2025, the city of Cardiff officially launched a three-month pilot program that applies AI technology to the recycling of paper cups. This groundbreaking initiative is the first in the world to use artificial intelligence for managing this specific waste stream.
The project is a joint effort between Keep Wales Tidy, the National Cup Recycling Scheme, and the smart recycling app Bower. Unlike traditional systems that rely on barcodes, Bower employs image recognition powered by AI to distinguish different types of paper cups. Users can simply download the app, scan their used cup, and return it to any participating location to receive a reward of five pence per cup.
Major F&B Brands Unite for a Sustainable Cause
Prominent names in the UK’s food and beverage industry, including Costa Coffee, McDonald’s, Greggs, Caffè Nero, and Pret a Manger have come together in a rare collaboration to support the program. Their joint participation highlights a shared commitment to encouraging more sustainable consumer behavior across the sector, setting aside competition in favor of environmental impact.
Tackling the Challenge of 2.5 Billion Discarded Cups Annually
In the UK alone, an estimated 2.5 billion paper cups are discarded each year. Most are not properly recycled due to a thin plastic lining inside the cup, which complicates the recycling process. Through this initiative, the collected cups will be processed so that the paper component can be reused in the production of premium packaging, while the plastic lining will be recycled into useful materials such as cables, furniture, and other durable goods. This represents a promising approach to smarter, more effective recycling within the circular economy.
Cardiff as a Model for Smart Recycling Cities
A representative from Keep Wales Tidy commented on the significance of the initiative, stating, “We believe small actions, like returning a used cup can lead to big changes. This is an opportunity for Cardiff to set an example for other cities in smart recycling.”
The pilot program will continue in Cardiff until the end of July 2025. Residents are encouraged to download the Bower app from the App Store or Google Play to participate in this effort and contribute to a more sustainable future.
