A new way of recycling: Smart Containers

October 2, 2024

Recycling has evolved significantly in recent decades, from simple manual waste separation to sophisticated automated systems. Waste management is a growing problem for administrations and the environment.

One of the most promising innovations in this area is the introduction of smart garbage cans. These devices are designed to optimize waste collection and processing by using advanced technologies such as sensors, Artificial Intelligence and IoT (Internet of Things) connectivity.

What are Smart Containers

Smart Containers are waste containers equipped with a variety of technologies to improve recycling efficiency. These garbage cans have different capabilities:

Fill level monitoring: Volumetric sensors alert collection services when containers are almost full, optimizing collection routes.
Detect the type of waste: Using sensors and cameras, they can identify whether the deposited materials are plastics, metals, glass, organic, etc.
Access to containers: Users can access the container through their citizen card or smartphone, receive information about their contribution to recycling, tips on how to recycle correctly and notifications about the status of the nearest container.
Automatic sorting: Some advanced containers have the ability to automatically separate waste, reducing the need for manual sorting.

Benefits for cities, citizens, and the environment

Smart containers, designed to optimize waste collection and management, have proven to be an innovative solution with numerous benefits. These benefits include reducing operating costs, improving waste collection efficiency, and promoting more sustainable recycling habits among the population.

Smart Containers may look the same as conventional containers, but they have sensors and IoT connectivity.

These devices, equipped with sensors and communication networks, can monitor the level of waste in real time, sending alerts to collection services when it needs to be emptied, avoiding unnecessary routes and reducing the emission of polluting gases..

Digitalization of urban services is key to creating more sustainable, cleaner, and inclusive smart cities.

Challenges in implementing smart containers

Despite its multiple benefits, the implementation of smart containers faces several challenges. One of the main obstacles is the initial investment, which includes not only the purchase of the different devices, but also the upgrade or creation of the technological infrastructure necessary for their operation.

This includes the installation of communication networks that enable real-time data exchange and the integration of waste management systems. IoT connectivity is a key aspect for the operation of smart containers, as it enables data transmission between devices and the central platform.

✅ NB-IoT connectivity (Narrowband Internet of Things) is characterized by low power consumption and cost, wide coverage, and high reliability, making it ideal for IoT solutions in urban environments.

Training personnel to handle and maintain this technology represents another important challenge, both in terms of time and resources. It is also necessary to influence citizens' habits and attitudes towards recycling.

Users must deposit waste in the right containers, respect collection schedules and follow hygiene and safety rules in order for the smart containers to work optimally. This requires awareness-raising and environmental education, as well as the commitment of citizens.

Smart containers improve waste management and promote greater environmental awareness among citizens.

Conclusion

Smart garbage cans represent a significant step towards a more efficient and sustainable recycling system. These devices, by integrating advanced technology with waste management practices, not only improve the efficiency of waste collection and sorting, but also promote greater citizen participation and awareness in recycling.

They therefore emerge as an innovative and necessary solution for a cleaner and more sustainable future as cities grow and face environmental challenges.