RecySmart: Data-Driven Recycling by Candam

Rethinking How Recycling Is Tracked

Most recycling systems rely on basic bins that don’t record data or show how people engage with recycling. This makes it hard to measure performance or enforce policies aimed at waste reduction. As cities and companies seek to improve recycling rates, the need for smarter, data-driven systems has grown.

RecySmart addresses this by adding a layer of digital tracking to standard recycling infrastructure. It focuses on material identification, user interaction, and data collection, all of which support more informed decision-making around recycling processes.

Technical Overview of the System

RecySmart is a sensor-equipped device designed to be mounted on existing recycling bins. It uses acoustic analysis and AI models to identify common packaging materials as they are deposited.

These materials include:

• Plastic bottles
• Beverage cans
• Glass containers
• Cartons

Each interaction is time-stamped and recorded, providing structured data on what was recycled and where it was recycled. The system sends this data to a central platform that aggregates it for analysis by waste managers or city services.

User Identification and Data Linking

To connect the recycling data to individuals, users identify themselves through a mobile app, RFID card, or QR code. This step allows the system to associate each recycling event with a specific user profile. The collected data helps track participation and supports the design of behavior-based recycling initiatives.

While the technology does not enforce participation, it allows for clearer insight into individual and group habits over time.

Use in Policy and Incentive Programs

The data RecySmart collects can support various recycling frameworks, including:

• Monitoring public participation in recycling programs
• Implementing Pay-As-You-Throw or Reward-based models
• Reducing fraud in deposit-refund systems

By offering verified data, the system provides a tool for aligning recycling policy with real-world behavior, which can be useful for municipalities and organizations managing public waste systems.

Adapting to Real-World Spaces

RecySmart is compatible with a range of waste collection settings. It does not require specially designed bins, which allows for flexible use.

Potential environments include:

• Residential housing complexes
• Educational and corporate campuses
• Transit stations and airports
• Commercial and tourist areas
• Outdoor public spaces

Its ability to integrate with existing infrastructure supports broader adoption without major operational changes.