A modern cloud based recycling system for smart cities

Abstract

The rate of urban waste production is constantly increasing as a result of the Earth’s rapid population growth and modern lifestyle. Organic and non-organic recyclable waste, which accounts for a significant portion of urban solid waste, has raised environmental concerns. The best way to create a healthy ecosystem is to recycle. According to estimates from the US Environmental Protection Agency, approximately 75% of total waste can be recycled, but we only recycle 25% of it. The majority of the non-recyclable waste is dumped on the ground or incinerated. We can save energy and create a valuable by-product that can be used as a locally generated fertilizer through recycling organic materials through the compost process, whereas non organic materials can be used as industrial materials. Under this study, we suggest a solution: a low-cost and efficient Smart Recycle Bin that aides the recycling process by using modern technologies such as environmental sensors and the LoRaWAN protocol. A centralized Information System gathers data from smart bins that can be placed virtually anywhere and can help with waste collection. The Information System will generate real-time routes for waste collection vehicles. We ran several tests with our smart bin prototype, assessed its performance, and came to the conclusion that it is a viable solution.