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How NOVA-CYCLE’s sorting machines boost plastic and metal recycling in The Netherlands

  • Joost Wijdeveld
  • Aug 5
  • 4 min read
Close-up view of a NOVA-CYCLE sorting machine separating plastics and metals
Close-up view of a plastic recycling waste stream

The Netherlands is making steady progress towards a circular economy, where waste is minimised and materials are reused as much as possible. But to reach this goal, recycling processes must become smarter and more efficient. That’s where NOVA-CYCLE’s sorting machines come in. These machines help businesses in the plastic and metal recycling industry sort materials quickly and accurately, improving recycling quality and reducing waste.


In this article, you’ll learn how NOVA-CYCLE’s technology supports the circular economy in the Netherlands. We’ll explore the challenges in recycling plastics and metals, how sorting machines solve these problems, and what this means for your business.



The state of circular economy in The Netherlands


The Netherlands aims to become fully circular by 2050. This means all raw materials should be reused or recycled, with minimal waste going to landfill or incineration. The government and businesses are working hard to reduce resource use and increase recycling rates.


Plastic and metal recycling are key parts of this transition. Plastics are widely used but often end up as waste due to contamination or poor sorting.

Metals are valuable but require careful separation to avoid mixing different types, which lowers quality.


According to the PBL Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency, the country has made progress but still faces challenges:


  • Plastic recycling rates need to improve, especially for mixed plastics.

  • Metal recycling is efficient but sorting technology can be better.

  • Contamination and incorrect sorting reduce the quality of recycled materials.


This is where advanced sorting machines can make a real difference.



Why sorting machines matter for recycling


Sorting is the first and most important step in recycling plastics and metals. If materials are not sorted correctly, they can contaminate the recycling stream and lower the value of the final product. Manual sorting is slow and prone to errors. Automated sorting machines speed up the process and improve accuracy.


NOVA-CYCLE offers sorting machines designed specifically for plastic and metal recycling. These machines use sensors and smart technology to identify and separate different materials quickly. This means:


  • Higher purity of recycled plastics and metals

  • Less contamination and waste

  • More efficient recycling processes

  • Better quality recycled materials for manufacturers


By investing in sorting machines, recycling companies can increase their output quality and meet stricter regulations.



NOVA-CYCLE’s sorting machines for plastic and metal recycling


NOVA-CYCLE provides advanced sorting solutions tailored to the needs of the recycling industry. The focus is on two valuable recycle streams:


1. Sorting machines for plastic recycling


NOVA-CYCLE plastic sorting machines use cameras, AI deep-learning and near-infrared sensors to identify different types of plastics. It can sort PET, HDPE, PVC, and other plastics automatically. The machine removes contaminants and separates plastics by type, making recycling easier and more efficient.


  • Benefits: Faster sorting, higher purity, reduced manual labour

  • Use case: Sorting mixed plastic waste from households or industry


Learn more about this product on the NOVA-CYCLE website.


2. Sorting machine for metal recycling


NOVA-CYCLE metal sorting machines can separate non-ferrous metals like aluminium and copper from mixed waste streams. It uses cameras, AI deep-learning and X-ray technology to precisely sort one metal from the other metals. This technology is essential for recovering valuable metals from waste.


  • Benefits: High-speed metal separation, improved metal recovery rates

  • Use case: Sorting metals from shredded electronic waste or mixed scrap


Details are available on the NOVA-CYCLE sorting page.



Eye-level view of a recycling plant with NOVA-CYCLE sorting machines processing plastic and metal waste

Stunning photo of a metal recycling waste stream


How these NOVA-CYCLE machines support your business goals


If you work in plastic or metal recycling, you want to improve your sorting process. NOVA-CYCLE’s machines help you:


  • Increase sorting speed: Automated machines process more material in less time.

  • Improve material quality: Accurate sorting means cleaner recycled plastics and metals.

  • Reduce costs: Less manual sorting lowers labour costs and reduces errors.

  • Higher profits: a higher purity of a recycled stream has a higher value.

  • Meet regulations: High-quality recycling helps comply with environmental laws.

  • Expand your market: Better recycled materials attract more buyers internationally.


TradePartnerz aims to be a leading partner in international trade by offering these advanced sorting machines. By using NOVA-CYCLE technology, you can stay competitive and contribute to a circular economy.



Practical tips for implementing sorting machines


Thinking about adding sorting machines to your recycling line? Here are some tips:


  • Assess your waste stream: Understand the types and volumes of plastics and metals you handle.

  • Choose the right machine: Sorting on color, sorting on color & shape or sorting on material density.

  • Train your team: Operators need to know how to maintain and troubleshoot machines.

  • Integrate with existing processes: Sorting machines should fit smoothly into your workflow.

  • Monitor performance: Track sorting accuracy and output quality regularly.


NOVA-CYCLE offers support and advice to help you get the most from their machines.



High angle view of a technician inspecting a NOVA-CYCLE sorting machine in a recycling facility
All types of NOVA-CYCLE sorting machines and its application


The future of recycling with NOVA-CYCLE


The circular economy is a journey. As recycling demands grow, sorting technology will keep evolving. NOVA-CYCLE is investing in research to improve sensor accuracy and machine speed. This means even better sorting results and less waste.


By adopting these machines now, you prepare your business for future challenges. You also support the Netherlands’ goal to become fully circular by 2050.



Take the Next Step in Recycling


Sorting machines are not just tools. They are key to making recycling smarter and more effective. NOVA-CYCLE’s solutions help you sort plastics and metals with precision, boosting your recycling quality and business success.


Explore how these machines fit your needs and join the movement towards a circular economy. For more details, visit the NOVA-CYCLE website.



By improving sorting, you improve recycling. That means less waste, more value, and a cleaner planet. What will your next step be?

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