Switzerland's recycling system is complex and requires a high level of knowledge from the population, as the various recyclable materials often have to be recycled at different locations and are sometimes difficult to distinguish. In addition to recycling, there is also an increasing focus on other aspects of the circular economy, such as reuse, transfer or repair. The circular economy makes an important contribution to reducing resource consumption and emissions and is specifically promoted by the City of Zurich. However, the circular economy is not yet very tangible and accessible to the population. This is particularly due to a lack of networking and visibility of existing offers.
We use technological progress in the areas of artificial intelligence and image recognition to fundamentally solve the challenges of the circular economy — such as complexity, lack of cross-linking of offers and lack of attractiveness.
With the ERZ Smart Assistant, citizens can scan objects using their smartphones and receive relevant suggestions for circulatory maintenance anytime and anywhere. In order to offer the right solution, we connect all relevant offers in the areas of sharing, exchanging, repairing, reselling, upcycling, recycling and disposal. Personal behavior is analysed and brought into context.
In order to reach as many citizens as possible, the ERZ Smart Assistant is not only offered in an independent app, but is also functionally integrated into existing high-reach apps, such as in the retail sector, in the Migros app. For the retail sector, recycling is a charging frequency measure and thus a business case.
We also assume that many future touchpoints, such as smart glasses or smart home applications, will be equipped with cameras. With the help of these, the ERZ Smart Assistant makes the circular economy simple, understandable and transparent.
Examples
- Scanning a PET bottle or cork: The assistant shows information about recycling and the surrounding recycling sites with route planning.
- Scanning a television. The assistant asks for further information (e.g. condition, age) and shows possible solutions and, if selected, transfers data directly to the linked offers. (e.g. repair shops, distribution platforms, recycling sites)
Core functionalities
- Intuitive interface
- Object recognition using camera and AI
- Open platform for all types of offers and information from the circular economy sector
- Assignment of identified objects with relevant offers and information using AI