I39/2670/2020 PIUS WAMBUA
1. PROBLEM STATEMENT:
The traditional waste collection system is inefficient, with issues such as;
Missed pickups,
Overflowing bins,
Improper waste segregation and
Unsustainable practices that contribute to pollution.
With growing urban populations, these challenges are becoming more pronounced. The waste
collection process often lacks real-time monitoring and data-driven optimization, resulting in
higher operational costs, environmental harm and decreased effectiveness.
2. IDENTIFIED NEEDS:
Smart waste collection aims to address specific needs derived from the problem statement.
The needs are:
1. Real-time Monitoring and Data: There is a need for a system that can monitor waste
levels in bins, track collection routes, and optimize the schedule for pickups in real time.
2. Efficient Resource Allocation: The need for a waste collection system that optimizes
vehicle routes, reducing fuel consumption and operational costs by collecting waste only
when necessary and from the most crowded areas.
3. Waste Segregation and Recycling: Smart solutions could include features that help
segregate waste efficiently or encourage recycling by providing residents with smart
bins that detect the type of waste.
4. Sustainability and Environmental Protection: Smart waste management can help reduce
landfill use, improve recycling rates, and lower carbon emissions through route
optimization and efficient collection systems.
5. User Engagement: There is a need to involve residents in the waste management
process by notifying them about pickup schedules, encouraging waste segregation, and
raising awareness about eco-friendly practices.
3. REQUIREMENTS:
Based on the identified needs, the smart waste collection solution must meet several
requirements:
1. Smart Bins with Sensors: Bins should be equipped with sensors that monitor the fill level,
alerting the collection system when they need to be emptied. This minimizes
unnecessary pickups and optimizes vehicle routes.
2. Real-time Data and Monitoring System: A centralized system should collect data from
smart bins, track fill levels, predict when pickups are needed, and analyze data trends to
optimize collection schedules.
3. Optimized Collection Routes: Using GPS and real-time data, the system should
determine the most efficient routes for waste collection trucks, reducing fuel
consumption, time, and overall operational costs.
4. Waste Segregation Technology: Smart bins should be able to detect and sort waste,
allowing for automatic segregation of recyclables, compostable materials, and general
waste. This improves recycling rates and reduces landfill dependency.
5. Mobile App for Residents: A mobile application should allow residents to track waste
collection schedules, receive notifications about pickup times, and report issues (such
as missed collections or overflowing bins).
6. Public Awareness and Education: The system should include educational features to
inform residents about proper waste management, the benefits of recycling, and the
importance of waste segregation.
7. Sustainability Features: The solution should integrate with technologies like waste-to-
energy or composting programs, offering an environmentally friendly way to manage non
-recyclable waste and organic materials.
8. Data Analytics for Continuous Improvement: Data collected from sensors, route
optimizations, and public feedback should be analyzed to continuously improve the
system and adapt to changing needs.
SOLUTION: SMART WASTE COLLECTION SYSTEM
1. Sensors in Bins: Sensors installed in waste bins detect fill levels and send real-time
updates to a central server. This helps waste collection operators avoid emptying half-
full bins and focus on full ones.
2. Optimized Routes and Scheduling: With AI-powered algorithms, the system can plan
efficient routes based on bin fill levels and traffic conditions, reducing unnecessary trips
and emissions.
3. Waste Segregation and Recycling: Bins can be designed to automatically detect and
separate recyclable and non-recyclable waste. The system could notify users when
they’ve placed non-recyclables in the recycling bin, promoting better waste practices.
4. User Feedback and Notifications: Users receive notifications via a mobile app about
collection times, and they can report issues like overflowing bins, enabling quick action.
The app also encourages users to segregate waste properly.
5. Sustainability and Environmental Impact: The system can integrate with local waste-to-
energy plants or composting facilities, reducing landfill usage and carbon emissions.
