AI Takes On Landfills and Bird Hazards in Russia

Russia is turning to artificial intelligence to monitor waste disposal sites and reduce flight hazards near landfills.

Artificial intelligence will now help monitor compliance with waste disposal regulations in Russia. According to the Russian Environmental Operator (REO), the AI system has been trained to detect ten types of legal violations at landfill sites. The technology has earned praise from Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Denis Butsaev.

The system also has potential in aviation safety. It can detect large gatherings of birds and estimate their numbers — a critical feature for landfills located near airfields, helping to mitigate risks to aircraft.

Developers note that the AI is capable of further training, including improved bird recognition algorithms. The set of capabilities is expected to grow significantly in the near future.

REO emphasized that modern IT solutions are also being actively applied to waste processing and recycling, positively impacting the environment. By 2030, the company aims to sort 100% of all incoming waste and return at least 25% back into circulation as recyclable materials.