1. Introduction The growing demand for sustainable recycling solutions has led to significant advancements in plastic waste identification technologies. Accurate classification of post-consumer plastics, particularly from food containers and packaging, is essential for improving recycling efficiency and reducing environmental pollution. However, conventional methods face challenges due to the diversity in plastic types, additives, and physical characteristics. In this study, we explore the integration of near-infrared (NIR) and terahertz (THz) spectroscopies with machine learning (ML) to enhance plastic waste identification. 2. Spectroscopic Techniques for Plastic Identification NIR and THz spectroscopies offer complementary advantages in distinguishing between plastic materials. NIR spectroscopy is widely used due to its effectiveness in detecting chemical compositions and polymer structures. However, it faces limitations when dealing with black or highly pigmented plastics. ...