Business Economics

Smart Waste Management: Transforming Pakistan’s Urban Landscape

Project Report

By:

Muhammad Zain Ul Abideen

Ayma Najib Khan

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Table of Contents
Abstract.......................................................................................................................................................3
Introduction.................................................................................................................................................3
The Current State of Waste Management in Pakistan.............................................................................4
Proposed Solution: Smart Trash Cans......................................................................................................4
Benefits of Smart Waste Management Systems..........................................................................................4
Improved Hygiene...................................................................................................................................5
Cost Efficiency..........................................................................................................................................5
Environmental Sustainability...................................................................................................................5
Cost Analysis................................................................................................................................................5
Challenges and Solutions.............................................................................................................................6
Electricity Reliability................................................................................................................................7
Technological Complexity........................................................................................................................7
Theft and Vandalism................................................................................................................................8
Conclusion...................................................................................................................................................8
References...................................................................................................................................................8

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Abstract
The waste management crisis in Pakistan necessitates immediate changes to address environmental and
public health issues. The deployment of IoT-enabled smart garbage cans, as described in a YouTube video
(Linked in References), and their suitability for Pakistan are investigated in this study. The present status
of waste management, the advantages of the suggested remedy, a thorough cost analysis, and the
possible effects of implementation are all covered in the conversation. In conclusion, Pakistan's urban
landscape may be transformed entirely by implementing intelligent waste management technologies
and creating cleaner, healthier cities.

Introduction
Pakistan faces a severe waste management problem that affects environmental sustainability and public
health. Large cities like Karachi and Lahore produce hundreds of tons of waste daily, yet improper
disposal methods cause health risks, obstructed drainage systems, and environmental deterioration.
With minimal focus on recycling or sustainable practices, Pakistan's present waste disposal methods
mainly rely on manual labor and antiquated infrastructure.

The nation's waste management situation could be revolutionized by technological developments like
intelligent waste management systems. Introducing smart garbage cans using Internet of Things-based
technology is the solution offered in this YouTube video (Linked in References). Garbage segregation and
recycling are encouraged, collection routes are optimized, and garbage levels may be monitored in real-
time thanks to these gadgets. This essay investigates how such a solution may be modified for Pakistan in
light of the nation's difficulties and financial limitations.

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The Current State of Waste Management in Pakistan
Every year, Pakistan produces about 48.5 million tons of solid garbage, of which a large amount is
produced in urban areas like Karachi. But only a tiny portion of this garbage is adequately managed.
Hazardous pollutants are released into the atmosphere when the majority of garbage is burned or
deposited in the open. Residents are in serious danger of health problems due to this behavior, which
also worsens air pollution.

To make matters more complicated, no organized mechanisms are in place for collecting and sorting
waste. Municipal officials find it difficult to handle the increasing amount of waste because of their tight
resources and antiquated infrastructure. Meanwhile, informal waste pickers contribute significantly to
waste management, but their work could be more organized and better at solving the more significant
issues. This disorganized approach highlights the necessity for creative ways to update Pakistan's waste
management procedures.

Proposed Solution: Smart Trash Cans

The usage of intelligent trash cans as a solution to waste management issues is highlighted in the
YouTube video (Linked in References). Waste management workers are alerted when the bins are full by
these devices' sensors, which measure waste levels in real-time. As a result, fewer needless collection
visits are made, saving fuel and operating expenses. Furthermore, specific models have waste
segregation sections, which facilitate recycling.

Solar panels can be added to smart trash cans to keep them running even in places with erratic
electricity. This feature is especially helpful given how frequently power outages occur in Pakistan. These
gadgets lessen reliance on the grid and promote sustainability by utilizing renewable energy.

Benefits of Smart Waste Management Systems

Adopting smart trash cans in Pakistan can yield several benefits, including improved hygiene, cost
efficiency, and environmental sustainability.

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Improved Hygiene
By removing the need for direct touch with waste, intelligent trash cans lower the possibility of bacteria
and viruses spreading. This is particularly important in public settings where sanitation is of the utmost
importance, such as marketplaces and hospitals. Sanitary and convenient waste disposal is guaranteed
by touchless technology.
Cost Efficiency
Smart garbage cans drastically reduce operating expenses for local governments by streamlining
collection routes and lowering pickup frequency. The money saved on labor and gasoline can be put back
into other vital sectors like healthcare and education.
Environmental Sustainability

Because they separate waste at the source, smart trash cans encourage recycling. This lessens pollution
in the environment and the amount of garbage that is dumped in landfills. Additionally, using solar-
powered gadgets lessens fossil fuel dependency, lowering carbon emissions.

Cost Analysis
Since implementing such systems is still somewhat expensive, Bin Fady's research paper, The Design and
Implementation of Smart Trash For localized and small-scale applications, including small parks,
university campuses, and hospitals, E. F. Samann offers an affordable smart garbage can. The following is
the costing:

Component Fixed Cost Periodic Cost

Metal Word and Paint $25
Solar Panel $34
Power Bank $30
Electric Junction Box $4
Arduino Nano $12
GSM Module $30
Ultra Sonic Sensor $8
PIR Sensor $6
Micro SD card Module $5
Other parts and Soldering $10
GSM network credit - $4
Total $168

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We can replicate such this design for Pakistan at almost similar cost budget:

Component Fixed Cost Periodic Cost

Metal Word and Paint PKR 7200
Solar Panel PKR 14,000
Power Bank PKR 9000
Electric Junction Box PKR 300-1000
Arduino Nano PKR 1100
GSM Module PKR 1500-2000
Ultra Sonic Sensor PKR 6000
PIR Sensor PKR 400
Micro SD card Module PKR 300
Other parts and Soldering PKR 3000
GSM network credit - PKR 1000
Total PKR 45,000

Although an upfront cost is associated with installing smart garbage cans in Pakistan, the long-term
financial and environmental advantages outweigh the expense. Including parts like sensors, solar panels,
and battery banks, the approximate cost per device is PKR 45,300. The estimated cost of a 100-unit pilot
project in Lahore would be PKR 4.53 million. Public-private partnerships, business sponsorships, and
government grants could all be used to finance this project.

Within three years, the operational benefits from lower gasoline usage and better collection routes are
anticipated to balance the initial expenditure. Furthermore, the project gains intangible value from the
environmental advantages, which include decreased air pollution and better waste segregation.

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Challenges and Solutions
There are difficulties in putting smart waste management systems into place in Pakistan. Nonetheless,
community involvement and smart planning can help overcome these challenges.
Electricity Reliability
Due to frequent power interruptions, smart garbage cans in Pakistan may not function properly. Even in
locations with erratic electrical supplies, continuous operation is ensured by including solar panels in the
design.

Technological Complexity
Smart garbage cans use sophisticated technology that needs to be maintained by qualified specialists.
Partnerships with nearby colleges and training initiatives can aid in developing the requisite technical
know-how.

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Theft and Vandalism
Electronic component theft is a possible danger. Secure enclosures and GPS tracking are examples of
anti-theft measures that can discourage such behavior. Campaigns to raise community awareness can
also help locals develop a sense of accountability and ownership.

Conclusion
An essential step toward resolving Pakistan's waste management issues is the installation of smart
garbage cans. These gadgets can maximize waste collection, encourage recycling, and improve
environmental sustainability by utilizing IoT technology. A gradual deployment that starts in major cities
like Lahore can be used as a template for implementation across the country. Pakistan can change its
waste management methods and create the foundation for a healthier, cleaner future with the proper
preparation, community engagement, and funding.

References
 Government of Pakistan. (2023). Waste Management in Pakistan: Current Practices and Future
Opportunities.
 Samann, F. E. F. (2022). The Design and Implementation of Smart Trash Bins. Academic Research
Journal.
 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jqe2HBmPvo0&t=17s