Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Ecology Foundation
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
A Second Life for Things: The Ecology Foundation of the Russian Agricultural Bank (RSHB) has identified the main technological and consumer trends in recycling.
The Ecology Foundation of the Russian Agricultural Bank presented an overview of the key areas of future recycling. Among the drivers of recycling growth, experts identified chemical recycling, the implementation of artificial intelligence and robots to automate waste sorting, data analysis, and logistics optimization, as well as technologies that extend the life of materials.
Artificial Intelligence and Waste Valorization
Growing demand for recycling is driving recyclers worldwide to improve efficiency. Chemical and advanced mechanical processing methods, which can enhance the value of waste, may be promising areas for recycling. At the same time, recycling offers significant opportunities for implementing artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things to improve operational efficiency. These technologies can optimize logistics, from monitoring container fill levels to developing intelligent collection routes.
Consumer trends and recycling
According to the Ecology Foundation of the Russian Agricultural Bank, a study uncovered various eco-habits have become firmly entrenched in the daily lives of Russians. Equal shares of respondents—31% each—use reusable bottles or mugs and conserve electricity and water. Another 18% of participants noted that they regularly recycle clothing and electronics or donate them to charity. Eight percent of respondents each expressed a preference for packaging-free goods or locally sourced products. Only 4% of respondents reported no eco-habits in their daily lives.
The Ecology Foundation not only analyzes trends but also actively implements them through its own projects and initiatives.
"Today, contributing to environmental conservation is a conscious choice Russians make every day," comments Elmira Morozova, director of the Ecology Foundation. "By choosing items that are reusable or made from recycled materials, each of us initiates an important cycle. We see growing public demand for recycling projects, and we're pleased that more and more people support the idea of giving things a second life. That's why the Foundation is implementing its recycling collection initiatives."
Environmental education and recycling
To engage all generations in environmental initiatives, the Foundation regularly holds recycling drives. Children in schools and kindergartens collected 29.7 tons of wastepaper over two years as part of the "Let's Plant a Forest Together!" campaign. Environmental education efforts are also carried out at leading Russian universities: Foundation experts hold poster sessions on microplastics for students. Employees of the Russian Agricultural Bank (RSHB) recycle old clothing, toothbrushes, and even CDs, and in 2025, a collection drive for blister packs of medications was held, with 15 kg of tablets sent for recycling.
The Foundation's "Gift Showcase" also supports the "nothing goes to waste" principle. Here, you can purchase stylish shopping bags made from recycled materials, water bottles made from recycled plastic, greeting cards with seeds, and pens made from recycled containers. This is the most direct and clear way to demonstrate how something that seems like trash acquires new value and usefulness.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.