Problem

One of the biggest challenges in waste management is limited recycling facilities. This results in a significant amount of waste being dumped in landfills, causing environmental pollution and health hazards. Recycling aluminum cans can significantly reduce this problem, but it is not always accessible, especially in remote areas. Additionally, there is no incentive for people to recycle.

This is where ALKAN-27 comes in. Our team realized that by creating a sound-based waste sorting mechanism that incentivizes users to recycle aluminum cans with monetary rewards, we could promote recycling and enhance accessibility even in remote areas.

Learn more about our project here.

Solution

The ALKAN-27 system uses an Arduino board connected to a microphone and speaker to detect the sound of an aluminum can being dropped into a designated bin. The system then dispenses a monetary reward to the user through a mobile app or card reader. We also designed custom bins made from recycled wood materials that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

To ensure the success of our project, we conducted extensive research on existing waste management systems and consulted with experts in the field. We also tested multiple prototypes before finalizing our design and implementing it at various locations.

Impact

Increased accessibility to recycling facilities by X%
Reduced landfill waste by X tons annually
Incentivized recycling behavior among users resulting in X% increase in aluminum can recycling

Quote of how incredible of an impact this had.

Team

Lead Engineer - John Smith
- Oversaw the design and implementation of the ALKAN-27 system
- Developed the mobile app and card reader integration
Programmer - Jane Doe
- Coded the sound-based waste sorting mechanism using Arduino
- Designed and developed the custom bins made from recycled wood materials

ALKAN-27: Sound-Based Can Recycling Rewards