SmartBin: An IoT-Based Intelligent Waste Classification and Automated Segregation System Using Machine Learning

Abstract: The rapid growth of urbanization has led to a significant increase in waste generation creating a need for efficient and intelligent waste management systems. Traditional methods of waste segregation depend on human labour, which is often inconsistent, labour-intensive, and error-prone. SmartBin, an Internet of Things (IoT) based automated waste classification and segregation system is proposed in this paper. The system employs an ESP32-CAM module to capture images of waste materials, which are then processed and classified by a machine learning model developed using TensorFlow running on a laptop server. Based on the classification outcome, a servo motor is rotated to direct the waste into either organic or recyclable compartments. Additionally, a real-time dashboard is implemented to visualise waste data, display captured images with their predicted labels and provide an option to export the data in CSV format. The proposed system provides a cost effective and scalable approach to automated waste segregation and thus contributing to the development of sustainable smart city.

Keywords: Internet of Things; Waste Segregation; Machine Learning; Computer Vision; ESP32-CAM; Smart Cities; Automation