Design and Implementation of a Smart Waste System Using Internet of Things

Abstract

In this paper, the development of a smart waste system using internet of things technology to enhance urban waste management was developed. The system integrates an ESP32 microcontroller with ultrasonic sensors to monitor garbage levels in real-time, addressing the inefficiencies in waste collection. The introduction highlights the challenges faced by urban waste management systems due to population growth and outdated infrastructure, emphasizing the need for effective monitoring solutions to reduce pollution and health hazards. The system is designed to provide real-time waste level detection and automated notifications, thereby improving collection efficiency and reducing operational costs. The literature review covers existing smart garbage systems, their components, functionalities, and challenges such as sensor reliability and scalability. The methodology outlines the use of the ESP32 board and ultrasonic sensors, detailing the design, programming, and testing processes to ensure system effectiveness. Results indicate that the ultrasonic sensor provides accurate measurements of waste levels, and the system's notification mechanism functions reliably for critical fill thresholds. The system demonstrated good power efficiency and effective data transmission through the Blynk app, though limitations including sensor interference and network dependency were observed. The paper concludes with a discussion on the successes of Internet of Things (IoT) integration and recommendations for future improvements, signaling notable advancements in urban waste management and the potential for smarter, cleaner cities.