An X-ray-like machine, but for waste. That’s what Sidharta Andalam and his team at Bosch Research in Singapore have developed. Instead of X-rays, it uses harmless terahertz waves to identify recyclable materials, help make recycling more profitable, and, in turn, divert recyclables like plastic bottles from landfills. Based on the terahertz images, an AI separates different types of plastic. In addition, Shuko and Geoff learn where plastic can be used wisely: Steven Greenall explains why plastic trombones are more climate-friendly than brass trombones.

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