The project, named ReciCast, has received 55,000 euros in aid under the Innovative Territories program. This initiative by the Generalitat promotes R&D&i projects with a direct impact on municipalities in the Valencian Community.
A representative from the General Directorate of Innovation visited Castalla to learn about the operation of this pilot system, which is already operational. During the visit, they were accompanied by the local mayor at the facility where the infrastructure is located.
ReciCast combines various technologies to optimize waste separation and encourage more responsible habits among citizens. The space features cameras equipped with artificial intelligence, which monitor containers in real-time to ensure waste is deposited correctly.
The facility also includes LED screens with educational and motivational information. Additionally, it has solar panels and batteries, making the system energy self-sufficient. The physical infrastructure is complemented by a digital platform that uses gamification techniques to incentivize recycling.
Through this application, users can track their progress, participate in competitions, and receive periodic reports on their contribution to reducing environmental impact. According to the representative from the General Directorate of Innovation, ReciCast demonstrates the role of technology in public policies and its benefits for the municipality.
“"The system has been designed to be scalable and replicable in municipalities of different sizes, so the potential impact of this development is much greater."
The reduction of un-recycled waste will decrease the volume reaching landfills and, consequently, the costs associated with municipal management. The mayor of Castalla has estimated that the implementation of real-time monitoring systems and the use of solar energy will reduce annual operating costs by 15%. They also projected a 10% reduction in CO₂ emissions thanks to optimizing collection routes using artificial intelligence.
The platform will allow for the collection of a large volume of data to measure the project's impact, identify areas for improvement, and adjust waste management strategies. With this, Castalla moves towards a more efficient, sustainable, and innovation-based model applied to public services.
