A robotic drone is now being utilized to clean up the waterways in Leeds. Developed in the Netherlands, this advanced technology, known as the Waste Shark, is the first of its kind to be deployed in the UK, according to the Leeds Waterfront Group.

The Waste Shark navigates through waterways, scooping up to 500kg of surface waste with its wide mouth. Paul Ellison, Chairman of the Leeds Waterfront Group, explained that the goal is to “enhance the rivers” in the city, which are often “forgotten about and neglected.”

Inspired by the whale shark, the Waste Shark features a large, open mouth designed to capture waste in a similar manner. The drone is powered by electric motors and controlled remotely from the riverside. It is equipped with GPS, collision avoidance technology, and a camera.

Ellison emphasized the importance of this initiative: “Waste collects in certain areas of Leeds, and there is an amazing amount of wildlife in the river now. We want to prevent any waste from being digested by wildlife and also stop it from reaching the sea.”

The project includes weekly data collection to measure the amount and types of waste removed from the water.

The Canal and Rivers Trust has approved this technology for the first time. Becca Dent from the charity highlighted the importance of innovative solutions for litter removal: “Millions of pieces of litter end up in our waterways. We’ve got birds, otters, and water voles living here. I’ve seen a moorhen trying to make a nest out of a trolley and crisp packets, so it’s really good to see the waste removed.”