According to Recycle Track Systems’ brief description, a smart recycling bin is an innovative and technologically advanced version of a traditional waste bin, aiming to send less waste to landfills.

It is equipped with various sensors, connectivity features, and data analytics capabilities to improve waste management and recycling efforts. Smart recycling bins are designed to make waste collection and recycling more efficient, convenient, and sustainable for businesses and consumers.

Benefits of smart waste management

Traditional waste collection methods often involve fixed schedules or routes, leading to unnecessary trips and wasted resources. Smart bins, equipped with fill-level sensors and IoT connectivity, have the potential to disrupt this approach by continuously monitoring and transmitting real-time data to waste management operators. This data enables operators to create dynamic collection routes.

Optimised collection routes mean fewer trips, reduced labour, and lower fuel expenses, which means cost savings for any waste management team or company. In addition, RTS claims that by preventing overflow and littering, additional costs associated with cleanup and maintenance can be reduced.

However, the data collected by smart waste bins goes beyond just optimising collection routes. Analysing the patterns and trends in waste generation and disposal might reveal peak waste generation times, allowing for better resource allocation during these periods. Moreover, understanding the types of waste being disposed of most frequently can guide the development of targeted recycling campaigns.

Behavioural change

RTS points out that one of the most interesting impacts of smart waste bins is their ability to influence individual behaviour. Through real-time feedback mechanisms, these bins encourage people to be more conscious of their waste disposal habits. When users see that their actions directly impact the fill levels of bins and the efficiency of waste collection, they are more likely to adopt responsible waste disposal practices.

Even smarter future

While smart bins are already packed with the latest tech, more smart bins will likely be fitted with AI operating systems, allowing the device to actively learn and clean, sort, and crush all types of waste more efficiently. In addition, improved data analytics will allow a better understanding of waste generation, allowing both businesses and consumers to identify ways to reduce and eliminate unnecessary waste.

Basic features of a smart bin

While different smart bins offer various features, there is a core set of elements that turns a conventional trash can into a smart bin.

Sensors – Smart bins are equipped with sensors that can detect the fill level of the bin. This information is often transmitted wirelessly over WiFI or Bluetooth, allowing waste management teams to optimise collection routes and reduce unnecessary pickups. Some smart bins can send notifications to waste management teams when nearing total capacity.

Connectivity – Smart bins are connected to the Internet of Things (IoT), enabling real-time communication between the bins, waste management teams, and central control systems.

Data Analytics – The data collected from the smart bins, such as fill levels, types of waste, and location, can be analysed to identify patterns and trends. This information can help make informed decisions about waste collection schedules, recycling campaigns, and resource allocation.

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