Automated Recycled Glass Sorting System Industry Analysis 2025-2032

What is Automated Recycled Glass Sorting System?

Automated Recycled Glass Sorting System is a device that utilizes advanced sensor technology, AI (Artificial Intelligence) and robotics to sort and purify recycled glass.As defined by Waste Management & Recycling Technology magazine, these systems are able to sort glass based on color, size and purity, significantly improving the efficiency and quality of glass recycling.

Application Value

Improved recycling quality: Systems accurately sort glass of different colors, reducing impurities and improving the purity of the final product.


Improved efficiency: Automated operations reduce manual labor and increase processing speed. For example, according to reports, robotic sorting systems can increase sorting efficiency by more than 20%.


Cost benefits: Although the initial investment is high, it is cost-saving in the long run by reducing labor costs and increasing the market value of recycled materials.


Environmental benefits: Reduces the burden of glass waste on the environment and supports the development of a circular economy.

Market Scale

According to industry report data, the global waste sorting equipment market (including automated recycling glass sorting systems) reached $1,094.96 million in 2024 and is expected to grow to $3,012.11 million by 2034, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.90%. Behind this growth is a growing global focus on waste management and sustainability.

In the U.S., a company called Zanker Recycling introduced automated glass sorting robots from ZenRobotics in 2018, enabling the processing of more than 10 tons of recycled glass per hour, making the glass recycling process more efficient and less costly (Source: Automated Recycled Glass Sorting Systems Market Research Report).


According to the study, North America and Europe are the major markets for automated recycling glass sorting systems, accounting for more than 70% of the global market share, thanks to strict environmental regulations and mature recycling infrastructure in these regions.

Expert Interviews and Opinions

According to Dr. Lee, a waste management expert, “The future of automated recycled glass sorting systems lies in improving the intelligence of the system to accommodate different types of glass waste to further increase the recycling rate” (Source: Expert Interviews 2024).


In an article in the journal Environmental and Resource Economics, academic Prof. Wang emphasizes that “automated recycling systems are not only an advancement in technology, but also a key step in the transition to a circular economy.”

Industry policy

The EU's Circular Economy Action Plan sets targets for increasing recycling rates, prompting member states to invest more in recycling facilities. Many countries encourage the adoption of automated recycling technologies through subsidies and tax incentives. China's National Sword Policy, for example, restricts imports of more polluting wastes and promotes domestic capacity for recycling, including glass.

Innovations in the market are mainly focused on the combination of AI and sensing technologies to improve the accuracy and speed of sorting. The demand for automated recycled glass sorting systems is growing rapidly in emerging markets as the concept of sustainability is gaining global popularity.

Article Q&A

Q1: What are the main application areas for Automated Recycled Glass Sorting Systems?

A1: The main applications are in glass recycling plants, construction material production, and the packaging and bottling industries.

Q2: What factors are driving the growth of this market?

A2: Increasing awareness about environmental protection, government policies for environmental protection, and technological advancements are the major driving factors.

Q3: What are the trends in automated recycled glass sorting system technology?

A3: Trends include further integration of AI and sensing technologies, improved system adaptability and efficiency.

Q4: Who are the key vendors in the market?

A4: Key vendors include ZenRobotics, AMP Robotics, and Bulk Handling Systems, among others.

Q5: How are government policies affecting the Automated Recycled Glass Sorting Systems market?

A5: Government policies are significantly driving the market by enacting stricter environmental regulations, providing incentives, and restricting waste imports.