Enhancing E-Waste Management with IoT-Based Monitoring Solutions

The adoption of smart electronic waste (e-waste) monitoring systems is vital to address an environmental, health, and economic challenges. E-waste is produced when electronic products or devices become unwanted or broken or end their useful life. If not properly managed or monitored, it can release heavy metals and chemicals like lead, mercury and cadmium into the environment hence harming the ecosystem and human health. Recognising the importance of raising awareness about the e-waste management, an IoT-based recycle e-waste monitoring system is proposed in this study. The system monitors the e-waste level and temperature measured by HC- SR04 ultrasonic sensor and LM 35 temperature sensor, respectively and updates to the system user. A NodeMCU acts as the system’s microcontroller, while Blynk is the IoT web platform. The system effectively monitored three e-waste levels and temperature, with a warning indicator triggered when distance or temperature thresholds were exceeded. This IoT monitoring system enables real-time data collection, enhancing the efficiency, accuracy and effectiveness of e-waste management. The system was demonstrated for small spaces (hostel) and extended to a broader area to support environmental sustainability and Green Campus initiatives. Small efforts in managing e-waste create a healthier environment and a better quality of life.