WASTE CLASSIFICATION

There are long-term adverse effects on the environment due to improper waste management even in developed countries and despite the advances in modern technology, the problem is nowhere close to solved. We believe that the three primary reasons for this issue are:

• Inconsistency: Recycling programs vary not only across countries but also across state lines. This inconsistency takes a toll on the environment by making the recycling process confusing for many.

• Lack of knowledge: Although many resources are available for effective recycling, there is a significant lack of ease of access. It is difficult for consumers to follow the requirements if they are not aware of the local requirements.

• Lack of responsibility: Large companies produce greater amounts of waste than any household consumer but they are not held responsible.

As computer scientists we may not be able to force large companies to take responsibility, however, we can utilize computer vision to obfuscate variance in local regulations and levels of individual knowledge and in turn improve the recycling rates of countries. By focusing on the first two points we can ideally challenge the inconsistency and lack of knowledge in waste management and make it easier to begin good recycling practices.

We aim to target the household consumer market instead of large corporations. This way we can challenge the inconsistency and lack of knowledge when sorting waste with the help of computer vision.

Our solution will implement a Modular real-time waste sorting system that can be attached above the waste bins and by holding the waste item below the camera to inform the user about recycling type. The sorting recommendations will be based on location by scraping the internet for local recycling requirements.

In all major cities, majority of waste sorting is done in a sorting facility. And currently, sorting waste at home is recommended but not required and hence, never enforced. This has led to a lack of information that has further caused irregular and incorrect household sorting. Incorrect segregation at the start of the process causes irreversible problems later in the process.