SMART ECOBIN For Safer Environment

The Smart EcoBin is an intelligent waste management system designed to promote environmental sustainability and improve the efficiency of waste collection.

- NAVPREET SINGH TUNG

Equipped with multiple sensors, the system monitors both the condition of the bin and its surrounding environment.

An ultrasonic sensor measures the waste level inside the EcoBin, indicating whether the bin is empty, partially filled, or full. This enables timely collection and prevents overflow. A DHT11 sensor records temperature and humidity, ensuring that conditions inside and around the bin are monitored for improved hygiene and maintenance. An MQ135 air quality sensor detects harmful gases and evaluates overall air quality both within the bin and in its surrounding area.

By integrating these sensing technologies, the Smart EcoBin strengthens waste management while supporting a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable environment. The prototype, along with the dustbin, is shown in Fig. 1, and the required components are listed in the Bill of Materials table.

Circuit and working

Fig. 2 shows the circuit diagram of the Smart EcoBin for environmental applications. It is built around Arduino Nano (MOD1), MQ135 air quality sensor (S1), DHT11 temperature and humidity sensor (S2), ultrasonic sensor HC-SR04 (S3), LCD I2C module, breadboard, Arduino Nano cable, and the EcoBin unit.

The MQ135 sensor is connected to the A1 analogue pin of the Arduino Nano. The DHT11 sensor, connected to the A0 pin, measures both temperature and humidity levels. The LCD I2C module displays real-time information, including air quality status (Good, Poor, Very Poor, or Toxic), along with temperature and humidity readings. Arduino Nano and sensor pins are connected as shown in Fig. 2.