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10. CASH IN TRASH:
Recycling For Cash In Norway

Globally, there are approximately 700 billion plastic cartons, cans and bottles in current circulation. Erling Lyche of Oslo, Norway, sometimes feels like most of them pass through his house. His family goes through "5, 6, 7 bottles of coke and the same amount in cans and bottles" every week.

Though in Europe less than 20 percent of containers are recycled, Norway has a far better average. Thanks in part to the TOMRA reverse vending machine, Norwegians are returning 90 percent of their containers to supermarkets in return for cash.

Though it looks simple, the TOMRA machine uses sophisticated 3D image recognition equipment to ensure accuracy. The machines, which are customized for different markets, are capable of identifying exactly what kinds of bottles or containers they are being fed. Customers insert their empties into the TOMRA, and the machine spits out a coupon, redeemable for cash at the store.

The Lyche family can earn up to 120 kroners (US$20) per week from recycling. Erling says he now has to keep an eye on his daughters, who have been pouring soda out of half-filled bottles so they can earn their kroners.