Smart waste management

The solution consists of a digital platform, mobile applications and smart containers called SmartBins, which use sensors, camera technology and artificial intelligence to identify, track and sort waste. People and companies that use the containers earn points that they can redeem for groceries, reduced office rent or discounted gym membership, to name a few.

'Cycled Technologies develops technology and solutions that can help increase recycling and promote a circular economy in both the consumer and business markets. They have established strong partnerships and work closely with customers throughout the development process. Their international network is vital as they operate across several markets simultaneously,' says Marte Lønnebakke from our Vestfold and Telemark office.

The company's customers need effective and efficient ways to manage waste. They may include property companies that operate commercial and office buildings, as well as owners of shopping centres, shops and sports facilities. Cycled Technologies brings the ecosystem – including users, waste collectors and recycling companies – together on a digital platform.

The digital platform compiles and analyses a range of valuable data, including material types, material quality and volumes, as well as where and when waste materials are delivered. This gives waste collectors and recycling companies useful information about collection points and greater access to recyclable materials. The data supports better logistics, lower transport costs and more efficient recycling.

Since it was founded in 2016, the company has focused extensively on customer engagement and market needs. In an upcoming pilot project, it will test 40 containers and the technology at two different locations. One of these is Skagerak Arena, the home ground of Odd football club, which has a capacity of 12,000 spectators. Cycled Technologies will help the club achieve its goal of recycling all its waste.

Alongside the pilot project in Norway, the company collects waste in Lagos, Nigeria, through its subsidiary Cycled Recycling Ltd, in partnership with the state waste management agency. It collects up to four tonnes of plastic waste each month and plans to expand the service to include paper, glass and metal.

'Our support has been instrumental in moving the project forward. It has enabled us to develop the technology, collaborate with pilot customers and create new jobs. As a result, we have attracted several new private investors who have invested in the company,' says Thor Sverre Minnesjord, CEO of Cycled Technologies.

The market for smart collection solutions is global. The company is currently focusing primarily on Norway and Scandinavia, the Middle East and parts of West Africa. Its main priority is to industrialise the platform and gain experience from its first commercial contracts, enabling it to further improve the containers and software.

Read more about how Cycled Technologies presents its solution to international audiences on Business Norway.