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The Miami-Dade Department of Solid Waste Management (DSWM), in partnership with its contracted vendors, recently deployed new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) trucks equipped with advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, designed to improve the efficiency and reliability of the county’s recycling services.
DSWM launched the first phase of this initiative in Spring 2025 as part of a new contract with its vendors, with the full fleet scheduled for deployment by early 2026. The AI-enhanced trucks are being used to monitor recycling contamination and optimize service operations.
“In Miami-Dade, we are leveraging cutting edge technology to improve our residents’ quality of life and make our service delivery more reliable and efficient,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “These new CNG trucks with AI technology not only make our recycling program more cost-effective, they also help us reduce contamination, divert waste, and move us closer to becoming a Zero Waste County.”
The AI technology incorporated into the new trucks identifies materials that do not belong in the recycling program. By flagging contaminants such as liquids, food-soiled cardboard, hazardous items, or non-recyclable materials, DSWM can better educate residents on proper recycling practices, reduce program costs, and maintain the quality of recyclable materials.
“Contamination is one of the biggest challenges in recycling operations,” said Miami-Dade DSWM director Aneisha Daniel, PhD. “It can increase recycling costs, slow down operations, and create safety hazards for our staff. These AI-enabled trucks allow us to proactively identify issues and address them immediately, improving both operational efficiency and public service.”
Under the new vendor contract, the trucks feature state-of-the-art GPS tracking and video capabilities, providing transparency and accountability for residents while enhancing operational resilience. The new trucks also include features that improve air quality, such as anti-idling technology and the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) as fuel. CNG is one of the cleanest fuels available for heavy-duty trucks, it reduces noise pollution by approximately 50 percent compared to diesel vehicles, and helps lower dependence on foreign oil.
As Miami-Dade continues to expand its recycling and waste diversion programs, the deployment of trucks that improve air quality and have AI-assisted monitoring demonstrates DSWM’s dedication to using cutting-edge technology to deliver safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible services to the community.
To learn more about DSWM’s recycling program and additional services, visit the DSWM Website at www.miamidade.gov/global/solidwaste/home.page.
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