In a groundbreaking effort to combat Asia’s water pollution, a Hong Kong-based startup, Clearbot, has developed autonomous, solar-powered boats that collect trash and debris from waterways. These innovative vessels are making waves in the fight against plastic waste and pollution.

Clearbot’s robot boats are designed to navigate through marinas, rivers, and coastlines, consuming waste floating on the surface. The boats are equipped with a conveyor belt that collects trash, which is then deposited into a collection basket. A camera photographs the haul, providing valuable data on the types and amounts of waste collected.

The impact of plastic waste on oceans is staggering, with an estimated 33 billion pounds of trash entering the oceans every year. Clearbot’s mission is to change this by providing a sustainable solution to water pollution.

Co-founder Sidhant Gupta envisions a future where these robot boats are ubiquitous, working tirelessly to clean up waterways. “We’re building the future of boats and ships,” he said.

Clearbot’s boats have already been deployed in Hong Kong, Thailand, and India, collecting significant amounts of waste and providing valuable data to help stem the flow of trash into waterways.

The company’s larger boat can collect 200 kilograms of garbage per hour and carry a load of 1.5 metric tons. Its smaller boat can collect 80 kilograms of waste per hour and carry 200 kilograms on board.

Clearbot’s technology has far-reaching potential, extending beyond waste collection to other “dull, dirty, or dangerous” jobs. Its boats can be equipped with various sensors and tools to map waterways, test water quality, collect samples, and even clear invasive plants and algae.

As the company scales up, Gupta hopes to have 20 boats deployed by March 2025 and 50 in operation within two years. His vision is for these robot boats to become a normal sight in harbors and waterways, making a significant impact on the health of our oceans.