The Hellenic Recovery Recycling Corporation (HERRCO) took part in the 7th International Verde.Tec Exhibition, Greece’s leading event focused on the Environment and Circular Economy, held from February 21 to 23, 2025, at the Mediterranean Exhibition Center (MEC) in Paiania.
With a strong commitment to a sustainable future, HERRCO highlighted its long-standing contribution to packaging recycling through the nationwide Blue Bin and Bell System. The organization inspired visitors and industry stakeholders to embrace sustainable practices and actively participate in efforts to combat the climate crisis.
At HERRCO’s booth, attendees—including business professionals, representatives of public and private organizations, and the general public—had the opportunity to learn about the importance of packaging recycling, and explore the key principles of sorting and recovering recyclable packaging waste. The booth also showcased the measurable results the Blue Bin System has delivered across Greece, along with practical ways everyone can contribute to reducing the country’s environmental footprint.
A major highlight of this year’s Verde.Tec was the presentation of the world’s first portable robotic material recovery facility, known as prMRF, developed as part of the European project RECLAIM. This cutting-edge unit uses advanced robotics and artificial intelligence to sort recyclable materials automatically, offering flexibility, efficiency, and significantly reduced operational costs.
Funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme, the RECLAIM project involves 10 partners from across Europe. Greece is strongly represented through the Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas (FORTH), HERRCO, environmental robotics firm ROBENSO IKE, and the Solid Waste Management Authority of the Ionian Islands (FODSA). The prMRF unit received the Honorary Award at the 2025 Greek Green Awards, held in parallel with the exhibition.
HERRCO’s involvement in this pioneering project underscores its commitment to integrating digital and robotic technologies into environmental practices, shaping what the future of recycling could look like through the implementation of pilot programs and smart infrastructure.
As part of Verde.Tec, HERRCO organized a special panel discussion on the role of robotics in municipal solid waste management. Mr. Ioannis Razis, General Manager of HERRCO, participated in the session, which focused on the challenges and opportunities that artificial intelligence brings to packaging recycling. He emphasized the transformative potential of the prMRF unit and noted: "Automating the sorting and processing of recyclable packaging from the Blue Bin system is both possible and within reach. At HERRCO, we already have valuable experience in this field. With the right investments in technology and infrastructure, we can significantly improve the effectiveness of recycling in Greece—while continuing to rely on essential human involvement. For us, packaging recycling is first and foremost an environmental necessity."
