The rise of computer vision technologies in waste management
In recent years, computer vision technologies have become increasingly important in community services. Urban video surveillance, urban cleanliness, and transportation are all sectors impacted by this technological revolution. Waste collection is no exception, thanks to waste analysis systems. By enabling automated analysis of collected waste streams, these systems offer solutions to improve sorting quality, optimize operations, and enhance team safety. Many local authorities and operators are now turning to these solutions to meet growing environmental and economic challenges.
However, this rapid adoption raises questions, particularly with regard to personal data protection. In France, the CNIL (Commission Nationale de l’Informatique et des Libertés) has already highlighted certain issues related to the use of similar technologies. Cases of excessive data collection or lack of transparency have highlighted the need for a clear and rigorous framework to ensure compliance with the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation).
Computer vision and GDPR: striking a balance
The GDPR, which came into force in 2018, imposes strict rules to protect the personal data of European citizens. These rules also apply to computer vision technologies used in waste management, whenever they collect information that can be linked, directly or indirectly, to individuals.
In this context, several points of vigilance emerge:
- Minimization of data collected: Solutions must limit collection to only the information necessary for their purpose. For example, cameras must not capture images of public roads or identifiable data such as names or addresses.
- Transparency: Citizens must be clearly informed about the data collected, how it is used, and their rights.
- Data security: Companies must implement technical and organizational measures to protect data from unauthorized access or leakage.
These requirements are not always met, as recent cases involving urban video surveillance have shown. These situations highlight the importance of a rigorous approach right from the design stage of technological solutions.
Compliance of waste management solutions
Solutions dedicated to waste management offer a significant advantage over those that capture images of public roads. This technology relies on cameras installed inside collection trucks, coupled with onboard analysis algorithms. The results are then accessible via a web interface, allowing local authorities and businesses to view statistics, sorting maps, and detailed reports.
One of the strengths of this solution is its compliance with GDPR requirements. The company has implemented several measures to ensure that its system is compliant:
- The cameras are directed solely toward the interior of the dumpsters, excluding any capture of images of public roads.
- The limited resolution of the cameras prevents personal information from being read on the collected objects.
- The data is sorted directly in the truck via the calculation box, which limits its transmission to only relevant information, such as sorting errors or statistics.
- The company, for example Lixo, acts as a subcontractor, strictly following the instructions of its clients, who remain responsible for the data collected.
These measures illustrate how it is possible to combine technological innovation with compliance with current regulations.
The responsibilities of stakeholders in data management
In the context of waste management, responsibilities regarding personal data are shared among several parties:
- Local authorities (or EPCI) are responsible for data processing. They must ensure that the solutions they use comply with the GDPR.
- Technology providers, such as Lixo, act as subcontractors. They must guarantee data security and comply with local authorities' instructions.
This regulatory framework, while strict, provides a solid foundation for the adoption of innovative technologies while protecting citizens' rights.
It is important to note that the vast majority of data collected by the solution is not personal data. The only situation in which personal data may be collected concerns the RFID chip numbers on the bins, and this only at the explicit request of the customer. In this case, Lixo acts exclusively as a processor, in accordance with the instructions of the customer, who remains the controller. Lixo then ensures that it complies with all the obligations imposed on processors by data protection legislation, in particular the GDPR.
What challenges lie ahead?
The use of computer vision in waste management is still evolving. In the future, these technologies could incorporate even more powerful AI algorithms, enabling more detailed analysis and real-time adaptation to the needs of communities. However, this evolution will need to be accompanied by increased vigilance on data protection issues.
Solutions such as Lixo's, although currently GDPR-compliant, will need to continue to adapt to CNIL requirements and changes in the regulatory framework. This ability to adapt is essential to ensure that users remain compliant, even in a constantly changing legislative environment. Companies such as Lixo play a key role in maintaining regular dialogue with the CNIL, professional associations, and local authorities in order to anticipate changes and adjust their solutions accordingly.
At the same time, users of these technologies can rely on their service providers for legal support and clear documentation. These resources enable them to better understand compliance issues and use these tools with peace of mind, without risking non-compliance.
For these technologies to continue to develop in a sustainable manner, industry players will need to innovate while respecting the fundamental principles of the GDPR: data minimization, transparency, and security. This will be essential to maintaining public trust and ensuring the long-term adoption of these solutions.
Computer vision represents a major advance for waste management, offering powerful tools to improve the performance of local authorities and businesses. The example of Lixo shows that it is possible to reconcile innovation and compliance, provided that a rigorous and transparent approach is adopted. As these technologies continue to develop, it will be crucial to maintain this balance in order to build a more sustainable future that respects citizens' rights.
