Abstract: Disclosed are smart recycling system (“SRS”) solutions for retrofit to a recycling bin. Exemplary embodiments include a housing for mounting to a recycling bin or lid. The housing may include an integrated circuit and other components such as photoelectric sensors positioned to recognize a recycling event (e.g., deposit of an item into the bin). A signal indicative of a recycling event is generated and associated data stored. Positive and/or negative feedback may be rendered on a display component for the benefit of the user and in response to the recycling event. Some embodiments may be operable to intermittently power components within the system so that power consumption is minimized. Signals generated by sensors in some embodiments may be parsed to recognize deposit of recyclables as opposed to deposit of non-recyclables or false positive events (e.g., a hand inserted to trip the sensor).