Key findings
GenAI, while impactful, is unlikely to transform the work of Recycling and Reclamation Workers.
The unique automation wave may not harm blue-collar workers, as physical tasks remain beyond GenAI’s capabilities.
Increased demand for premium goods may even boost the need for these workers, potentially raising their income share.
Tasks such as preparing materials, identifying hazards, and disassembling products require skills like Active Listening, Monitoring, and Operation Control, which are less likely to be automated in the future.
How could AI or automation replace or complement job activities?
AI and automation could be used to automate activities such as sorting materials into appropriate containers, operating equipment like shredders and balers, recording logs of recycled materials, and extracting chemicals from discarded appliances.
For example, AI could be used to analyze and sort recyclable materials more efficiently, reducing the manual labor required by Recycling Workers.
Job description
Prepares and organizes materials for recycling. Identifies and removes dangerous substances. Takes apart parts of products like appliances.
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