Inside WM Recycling Brevard’s sprawling 63,900-square-foot facility, a river of recyclables surges at up to 180 feet per minute, snaking through an array of automated industrial machines. This isn’t just any recycling plant; it’s a high-tech marvel that has recently undergone an $18 million upgrade, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in waste management.
At the heart of this transformation are eight new optical sorters, each costing around $600,000. These AI-equipped machines are revolutionizing the sorting process. “It’s running at a high rate of speed. It uses lights and refraction off of mirrors to identify what type of plastic it is,” explains Plant Manager Tim Van Ness. In the blink of an eye, these machines detect polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic and direct it with precise bursts of compressed air. This technology has significantly boosted efficiency, capturing more water bottles than ever before.
The impact on the workforce is notable. The plant now employs about 50 workers, down from 65 to 70 before the upgrades. “The industry continues to evolve,” Van Ness acknowledges. Yet, despite these advancements, about 20% of incoming goods remain unrecyclable, highlighting the persistent challenge of contamination.
The facility’s recent history is a mix of innovation and incident. In October 2024, seven workers were hospitalized after an unknown substance, likely pool chemicals, caused respiratory issues. This hazmat incident underscores the ongoing need for public education. “Humans work here,” emphasizes WM spokesperson Amy Boyson. “They have to put the correct items into their recycling carts.”
The plant’s journey from its $12 million inception in 2014 to its current state reflects broader trends in the water, sanitation, and drainage sector. The integration of advanced technologies like optical sorters is not just about efficiency; it’s about redefining the role of human labor in waste management. As automation increases, the sector must grapple with the implications for employment and worker safety.
Moreover, the persistent issue of contamination points to a critical need for improved public outreach. The success of Brevard County Solid Waste’s “recyclopedia” suggests that education can drive significant changes in recycling behavior. However, the occasional appearance of unusual items—from alligator carcasses to firearms—serves as a stark reminder of the challenges ahead.
As WM Recycling Brevard continues to process up to 100,000 tons of materials annually, its story offers a glimpse into the future of waste management. The sector is at a crossroads, balancing the promise of technology with the realities of human error and the need for continuous education. The lessons from Brevard could very well shape the trajectory of recycling and waste management for years to come.