Meet Dr. R.E. Cycler, a robot built by Florida Robotics to teach children about recycling. The robot runs on solar power and can move and interact with children. He also “eats” cans by crushing them and storing them in his belly where they are later taken to a recycling facility.

The doctor was first built in May, 2011, in response to a request from Waste Management for “something new and different.” The team at Florida Robotics hopes the Doctor will inspire a new generation to become interested in recycling and environmental stewardship. Imagine how many more cans would be recycled if robots like this roamed public spaces!

Check out the video below to watch the robot in action!