SWAMIS: A Low-Cost, IoT-Driven Smart Waste Bin System for Sustainable Urban Waste Management

The growing demands of urban waste management require intelligent, sustainable, and automated solutions. This study presents the design and development of a Smart Waste Bin System that leverages microcontroller technology and Internet of Things (IoT) (SWAMIS) connectivity to address the inefficiencies of conventional waste disposal methods. The system integrates an ESP32 microcontroller with ultrasonic sensors to monitor waste levels in real-time and incorporates an infrared sensor for automated, contactless lid operation, enhancing hygiene and user convenience. Once the waste exceeds a predefined threshold, the system transmits notifications via wireless communication modules to a centralized monitoring platform, enabling prompt and efficient waste collection and management. A mobile application, based on Bluetooth technology, facilitates remote user interaction with the bin. The prototype demonstrates improved waste collection efficiency, reduced overflow incidents, and lower operational costs, particularly in high-traffic urban areas. Through performance testing, the system has proven reliable, scalable, and adaptable for smart city applications. The findings highlight the potential of microcontroller-based smart bins as a viable solution for addressing modern waste management challenges, thereby contributing to environmental sustainability and public health.