NTM’s Quatro brings simplicity and efficiency to waste sorting
From a small Finnish town to over 20 countries worldwide, NTM’s journey shows how practical innovation can drive change in the waste management industry. Founded over 70 years ago in Närpes, the family-owned company has become a market leader in the Nordic countries, championing new methods for waste collection.
“The Nordic countries have been early adopters of environmental innovations, which has allowed us to develop effective waste management solutions. As other countries begin to focus more on recycling, we’re in a strong position to share the systems we’ve already refined,” says Niclas Pada.
To address the complexities of modern waste management, the company developed the Quatro. The system allows residents to sort waste into two bins, both divided into four compartments for different waste fractions. The collection vehicle is equipped with a lift that empties all four waste compartments simultaneously into separate garbage containers.
“The Quatro simplifies life for everyone: it eliminates the need to drive to collection points, keeps materials separated during transport, and results in 98% clean fractions, ready to be recycled and reused. Sorting at home leads to better recycling overall, with less misplaced waste”, Pada explains.
The Quatro is utilised in over half of Swedish municipalities, with adoption steadily growing in Finland. The system was launched in 2003 and has evolved over the years through continuous improvement in collaboration with waste management companies.
NTM has a deep commitment to sustainability. The company has produced nearly 500 electric waste trucks and is exploring new technologies, including hydrogen-powered trucks. In addition to alternative fuels, NTM is focusing on digital advancements.
“AI and IoT are key in developing new ways to automate the process of waste collection and helping us support drivers in their daily work. The goal is to make the process more efficient and safer for both workers and the communities they serve”, Pada states.
