Project #1 - Project Proposal of The Eco Reward Bin: Waste Less, Earn More

Problem Space

Many public spaces and bodies of water are suffering from increasing pollution, primarily due to improper waste disposal. A significant factor contributing to this issue is the lack of accessible trash bins in high-traffic areas, which makes it difficult for individuals to dispose of their waste responsibly. This shortage of waste disposal infrastructure leads to consumers leaving trash in public spaces or near water sources, which harms the environment and disrupts ecosystems. Furthermore, many people adopt the mindset that waste management is someone else’s responsibility, resulting in widespread neglect. Without adequate incentives or accessible solutions, recycling rates remain low, and waste continues to accumulate, impacting both wildlife and local communities.

Figure 1: Consumers not taking responsibilities of their trash

Figure 2: Consumers not recycling according to the category of recyclable waste

Figure 3: Water pollution caused by waste thrown into bodies of water

Figure 4: Trash cans are nowhere to be found in the city areas

Description of Problems

Problem #1:

Lack of accessible trash bins in crowded public areas leads to littering and improper waste disposal.

[Refer Figure 4]

• Usability Goal: Trash bins should be easy to find, access, and use in busy public spaces.
• Experience Goal: Users should feel that disposing of waste is quick, convenient, and satisfying.

Problem #2:

Incorrect disposal or mixing of recyclable materials reduces recycling efficiency.

[Refer Figure 2]

• Usability Goal: Recycling bins should be clearly labeled and easy to understand to minimize sorting errors.
• Experience Goal: Users should feel confident and empowered when sorting their recyclables.

Problem #3:

Recyclable materials often end up in landfills or an inappropriate place such as river due to insufficient infrastructure on incentives.

[Refer Figure 1 & Figure 3]

• Usability Goal: Recycling infrastructure should be accessible and integrated into daily routines.
• Experience Goal: Users should feel their recycling efforts are meaningful, recognized, and part of a sustainable solution.

Proposed Solution

Our solution is the Eco Reward Bin, a smart waste management system that simplifies and rewards recycling. Users can deposit all types of recyclable waste into a single-entry slot without needing to sort items beforehand. An AI-powered scanner automatically identifies, categorizes, and weighs the materials, then sorts them into the appropriate internal bins. Based on the weight and type of waste, users receive instant cash rewards. Users can schedule a pickup service through the app for larger amounts of home or company recyclable waste. After scanning and registering their items, our team collects and verifies the waste to ensure accurate processing. Once verified, the corresponding reward is credited to the user’s account. Users can conveniently withdraw their earnings at any time using platforms like Touch ’n Go and Grab Wallet. Additionally, a loyalty program allows users to accumulate points and unlock extra cash bonuses as they recycle more. Eco Reward Bin makes recycling simple, accurate, convenient, and rewarding to empower communities to reduce waste while earning real benefits.

Description of Proposed Solution

Solution for Problem #1:

Deploy Eco Reward Bins in public spaces to provide a convenient, attractive option for recycling and waste disposal, while rewarding users.

Solution for Problem #2:

The AI-powered scanner automatically identifies and categorizes each material before sorting it correctly without the help of humans.

Solution for Problem #3:

Eco Reward Bin incentivizes recycling by rewarding users with cash, encouraging more responsible waste disposal.

Target User

1. Citizens

Citizens can benefit from this system to get rid of waste from their home. Citizens who often leave the home a lot can also benefit from our Eco-reward bin Machine for when they want to dispose of any recyclable waste.

2. Environment Cleanliness Workers

Workers who often work to keep the cleanliness of cities or parks can benefits a lot from the eco-reward bin Machine. Cleanliness workers can gather and collect recyclable waste and cash out at the machine. This is very helpful as it helps the cleanliness worker financially.

3. Waste Management Companies

Waste management companies now can also get recyclable items from our app. Instead of getting the items from recycling bin, we are able to reserve the items in a proper manner for the company.