Billy Bishop Airport launches AI bin assistant to boost recycling and enhance passenger sustainability experience

Credit: Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ)

Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) has introduced Oscar, an AI Sorting Assistant, to improve both waste management and the passenger experience. Developed by Intuitive AI, Oscar helps visitors correctly sort waste through real-time visual guidance, making recycling clearer and more accessible.

Using AI recognition and a digital display, Oscar instantly identifies items and directs users to the correct bin. This reduces confusion, boosts recycling rates, and cuts down on landfill waste.

“Oscar makes waste sorting simple and intuitive, exactly what travellers need at a busy airport,” said Juhi Matta, Senior Manager of Environment, Social and Governance at PortsToronto. “We’re not only reducing waste across the airport, but also engaging and educating visitors and staff along the way. It’s a win for people and for the planet.”

When not in active use, Oscar continues to play a role by displaying rotating climate-focused messages. These messages support the airport’s ongoing sustainability mission and keep environmental awareness visible in the terminal.

Behind the scenes, Oscar also delivers cost and efficiency benefits. It reduces waste stream contamination and lowers waste management costs. It’s built-in media platform creates an additional revenue stream, helping to cover deployment costs and making the technology financially self-sustaining.

“This is about reimagining airport infrastructure to serve both people and the planet,” said Hassan Murad, CEO and Co-Founder of Intuitive AI. “Oscar helps sustainability teams offset costs and begin generating revenue, while delivering a better guest experience.”

This initiative further strengthens Billy Bishop Airport’s environmental, social and governance (ESG) measures, which have already earned industry recognition. By investing in AI technology like Oscar, PortsToronto demonstrates that effective sustainability can be both practical and customer-focused.

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