UW–Madison deploys AI recycling assistants to support waste reduction goals 

LCD screen sitting on top of a row of waste and recycling bins.

An Oscar Sort system awaits users and researchers at the Memorial Union.

The University of Wisconsin–Madison has deployed four state-of-the-art AI recycling assistants called “Oscar Sort” (“Oscars”) across campus, marking an exciting step in the university’s commitment to sustainable operations, education, and research.   The Oscars, which use technology developed by the company Intuitive AI, combine waste bins with interactive, digital displays that are designed to make waste sorting an engaging and educational experience. By incorporating gamification elements into the displays, the Oscars provide real-time feedback and behavioral nudges, encouraging users to sort their waste correctly. This dynamic approach not only makes recycling fun but also helps form long-lasting, responsible habits.  The new systems are the result of a collaborative effort involving multiple university entities, including the Office of Sustainability, University Housing, the Wisconsin Union, and Facilities Planning & Management. Prominent installation locations—Dejope Residence Hall, Gordon Dining & Event Center, Union South, and Memorial Union—will drive traffic to the Oscars and improve data collection.    “The Wisconsin Union is proud to be a partner in the AI recycling assistant initiative as part of our ongoing commitment to sustainability,” Wisconsin Union Deputy Director Susan Dibbell said. “From providing bioplastic, compostable silverware to supporting dynamic waste-sorting information, we strive to make sustainable habits easy for our customers and to make sustainability a commitment embedded throughout our operations.”  The Oscars also reflect a concerted effort to leverage campus for “living lab” opportunities in sustainability. This means that the university’s infrastructure and operations foster multidisciplinary student learning and applied research that contributes to understanding challenges and advancing sustainability on campus.  
A student in a black shirt interacting with an LCD screen sitting on top of a row of waste and recycling bins.

A student uses an Oscar Sort system by holding an item in front of its AI-powered camera.

According to Travis Blomberg, campus resources coordinator at the Office of Sustainability, “Oscar Sort is a perfect fit for a living lab at UW–Madison. Students, faculty, staff, and external partners can work together on this practical real-world application to help our university with its sustainability goals.” The Office of Sustainability welcomes collaboration from UW–Madison researchers, students, and instructors on potential projects using the Oscars.  The introduction of Oscar Sort technology is expected to have a substantial impact on campus sustainability efforts, particularly within the realm of sustainable materials management. In FY24, UW–Madison produced over 1,600 tons of recycling as well as over 3,400 tons of landfill waste. By making waste sorting more intuitive and rewarding, the Oscar systems can help reduce contamination in recycling streams and increase overall recycling rates. The data collected from these stations will also provide valuable insights into waste disposal patterns, helping to further refine and optimize waste and recycling management strategies.  “Oscar Sort is one piece to a much larger puzzle in achieving the goal of achieving zero waste by 2040,” said Blomberg. “And it’s not the only resource that the campus community can use. When you don’t have an Oscar nearby, we encourage you to search the Zero Waste Compass to find out how to responsibly discard your items.”   Students, faculty, staff, and visitors are all encouraged to check out the new Oscars. Whether you’re a seasoned recycler or new to the concept, the Oscar Sort is designed to guide and educate everyone.