E3S Web of Conferences 507, 01031 (2024) https://doi.org/10.

1051/e3sconf/202450701031
ICFTEST-2024

IoT-based smart garbage monitoring system and

advanced disciplinary approach
K. Mallikarjuna Raju1*, Sheshanth Banuri1, Huzaifa Shaik Abdussami1, Saieshwara
Kowdi1, Muthana Saleh Mashkour2, Manjunatha3, Navdeep Singh4 and Ashwani Kumar5
1Department of AIMLE, GRIET, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
2Medical Laboratory Technology Department, College of Medical Technology, The Islamic
University, Najaf, Iraq.
3Department of Mechanical Engineering, New Horizon College of Engineering, Bangalore,

Karnataka, India.
4Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India.
5Lloyd Institute of Engineering & Technology, Knowledge Park II, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh,

India.

Abstract. The rapid urbanization and population growth in cities have led
to an unprecedented increase in municipal waste generation. Efficient
management of this waste is crucial to maintaining a clean and healthy
environment. Traditional waste management methods often fall short in
addressing the dynamic nature of waste generation patterns. This project
presents a Garbage Monitoring System (GMS) that utilizes advanced sensor
technologies and data analytics to revolutionize waste collection processes
in urban areas. The system integrates different sensors, devices for
communication, and software applications to furnish real-time monitoring
and data analysis for waste management. The system not only enhances the
operational efficiency of waste management but also promotes
environmental sustainability. By optimizing collection schedules, reducing
waste overflow, and reducing environmental negative impact, the system
represents a significant step towards building smart and eco-friendly cities.
The approach is to help in an innovative way while collecting garbage and
monitoring systems in an effective way.

1 Introduction
In today's fast-paced cities, dealing with trash efficiently is a big challenge for local
governments worldwide. The usual way we manage trash, with fixed schedules for garbage
collection and not-so-smart resource use, struggles to keep up with the changing patterns of
how much trash we produce in cities. This leads to bins overflowing, pickups happening at
odd times, and risks to the environment. To tackle these problems, there's a new way of
thinking that involves using the Internet of Things (IoT). This research paper looks into a
"Smart Garbage Monitoring System" that uses IoT to change how we handle trash. This
system uses special sensors in trash bins to instantly tell us how full they are. This data goes

*
Corresponding author: [email protected]

© The Authors, published by EDP Sciences. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative
Commons Attribution License 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
E3S Web of Conferences 507, 01031 (2024) https://doi.org/10.1051/e3sconf/202450701031
ICFTEST-2024

to a central system that helps city officials plan the best schedules for garbage pickups, save
money, and be kinder to the environment.
This research focuses on how these smart sensors in bins can make our waste system
smarter. The goal is to share information quickly, helping cities make better choices about
when and where to collect garbage. The paper also looks at the technical side of how this
Smart Garbage Monitoring System works, like how the sensors talk to each other and how
data is analyzed and processed in the cloud It also explores the good things that can come
from using this system, like using less fuel, creating fewer air pollutants, and improving
public health. In a nutshell, this research adds to what we know about making city life better
with IoT. By checking how well a Smart Garbage Monitoring System works, we want to
show how this new way of dealing with trash can make our cities more sustainable and
efficient. This information could help cities and leaders make choices that are good for the
environment and the people who live in these modern urban spaces.
The existing waste management systems face significant challenges in efficiently
monitoring and managing garbage disposal, leading to environmental and logistical
concerns. The lack of real-time data and proactive monitoring often results in overflowing
bins, environmental pollution, and increased operational costs. Traditional waste collection
methods are neither optimized nor responsive to the dynamic nature of waste generation in
urban areas, leading to inefficiencies and environmental hazards .To address these issues, the
proposed Smart Garbage Monitoring System utilizing IoT aims to revolutionize waste
management practices. The system intends to integrate advanced technologies to provide
real-time insights into garbage levels within bins. By employing IoT-enabled sensors
embedded in waste containers, the system will continuously monitor fill levels, enabling
timely and informed waste collection.
A clever Trash Monitoring System that uses Arduino technology is made to make taking
care of garbage much better. It checks how full trash bins are using special sensors. .If a bin
is getting too full or if something's not right, the system sends a message to the people in
charge, so they can fix it quickly. The system also uses GPS to figure out where the bins are,
helping to plan the best times to pick up the trash. All this information is sent to a main
computer, where they can study it and make the garbage collection even better. This smart
system not only makes trash collection more efficient but also helps take care of the
environment by reducing the impact on the planet that comes from old-fashioned garbage
methods. The paper is structured as follows: Section 2 presents the literature review, Section
3 provides a block diagram depiction of the proposed system, accompanied by a concise
methodology explanation. The analysis of results is addressed in Section 4, while Section 5
concludes the paper and discusses future endeavors.

2 Literature review
Efficiency in garbage monitoring can be evaluated through diverse facets employing
technological, operational, and environmental metrics utilizing various analytical
approaches, as detailed in subsequent sections.
The authors of [1] detailed about a technological workflow for the management of waste,
encompassing a smart waste collection system through to waste disposal. Using GSM
technology, the intelligent waste bin is designed to autonomously send alerts as it approaches
full capacity. Employing NIR reflectance spectroscopy, the method facilitates the
differentiation and removal of plastic items from municipal solid waste (MSW), offering all
biodegradable substances for potential use in a biogas plant. The automated biogas plant is
manipulable via SCADA software and PLC hardware, affording control over various
parameters. The overarching objective of this entire process is to tackle waste management
challenges while concurrently generating a sustainable energy source.

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The authors of [2] proposed a solution for solid waste management by employing a
wireless sensor network to monitor waste bin fill levels through embedded sensors. Data
collected by these sensors is transmitted to a remote server via long-range communication
modules, allowing operators to monitor the system. Edge routers facilitate node connection
to an access gateway for internet access. The firmware for the Quectel M10 modem,
developed with OpenCPU, has been functional during testing, enabling successful data
transmission and remote debugging. The software processes data for route planning and
presents it through a user-friendly interface.
The authors [3] main aim is to eliminate the perception of our city being wasteful. The
motivation behind implementing this application is to enhance the quality of city life. With
the population steadily increasing, managing various aspects efficiently has become
challenging. Our proposed Android application serves as an assistant to navigate through
these complexities. It is designed to assist city residents in finding relief from waste pollution,
enabling them to move freely on roads and highways. Additionally, the application is
equipped to alert authorities in case of any misconduct, and its functionality for detection,
monitoring, and reporting is anticipated to benefit the city's residents. Looking ahead, we
plan to expand the application's capabilities by incorporating fire-fighting and first aid
functionalities, intending to assist people in rural areas during vulnerable situations.
The authors of [4] introduced a solution to improve the efficiency of waste collection
through the utilization of RFID technology. The proposed system assists users in the accurate
sorting and disposal of waste, offering a reward system by converting the weight of disposed
items into points. The system also offers significant insights into the contents of individual
bins, allowing for the calculation of statistics regarding various types of waste for recycling
purposes. This method assists in improved waste collection planning and allows operators to
promptly address abnormal situations. The latter function depends on an ambient
communication infrastructure, although specifics are not provided in this paper. Furthermore,
the paper presents an energy-efficient protocol tailored for prolonged operation within waste
containers.
The authors of [5] introduced a framework for a real-time monitoring system for solid
waste bins, employing wireless sensor networks and communication technologies. The
system's implementation includes the development of a graphical user interface, contributing
to the provision of real-time data on bin status. By collecting precise and up-to-the-minute
information, the system serves as valuable input for a waste management system.
Consequently, the system aids in reducing operational costs and greenhouse gas emissions
by utilizing real-time bin information to optimize waste collection routes through an efficient
algorithm.
The authors of [6] undertook a distinctive initiative that merges accelerometer, magnetic
proximity, ultrasonic, and mass sensing techniques. These varied sensing methods are
integrated and processed using a rule-based inference approach to establish a dependable
system for monitoring bin status. The algorithm plays a vital role, combining data on the bin's
operational condition, lid type, time threshold, and sensitivity to weighted-down conditions.
Performance evaluation of the system is conducted through trial operations. The algorithm,
in conjunction with an intelligent strategy, delivers a clear indication of bin status, facilitating
efficient automation of solid waste management. This innovative approach enhances
monitoring capabilities and increases the efficiency of waste management automation.
The authors of [7] created a prototype for monitoring and managing solid waste using a
combination of Radio Frequency ID, GPS and GSM technologies. The envisioned system
incorporates a Satellite, GSM & GPRS communication, RFID tags, and a GPS receiver. This
integration aims to establish a novel and effective real-time tracking system for solid waste.
The proposed system is designed to offer real-time information on the precised location of
garbage carriers and the status of collection of solid waste in recycling bins. It emphasizes

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the optimization of waste collection efficiency. Beyond improving collection processes, these
new systems also provide communities with opportunities to enhance environmental
responsibility. The anticipated prototype is intended to deliver information to drivers,
managers, and relevant stakeholders through either an automated or web-based application,
while also addressing environmental concerns and mitigating detrimental effects.
The authors of [8] presented a groundbreaking solution that integrates passive RFID,
GPS tracking, and an affordable camera to enhance the efficiency of solid waste collection.
The system developed excels in providing real-time updates on bin status, accurate
measurements of solid waste volume, and precise information on truck services' timing and
locations. Its implementation includes a user-friendly interface, making data on both trucks
and bins easily accessible. Additionally, the system assists in relocating bin positions based
on daily waste accumulation, allowing the control server to optimize bin distribution in
collaboration with GIS and the system's waste detection. Consequently, this system enables
effective management and monitoring of solid waste bins, their statuses, and truck scheduling
and locations.

3 Proposed System
The proposed system is described as follows: When the Arduino system is successfully
integrated with the ultrasonic sensor, it continuously monitors the garbage bin's fill level.
This proposed work emphasizes the practical aspects of the system, particularly highlighting
the operational measures in waste management. The ultrasonic sensor precisely gauges the
distance to the trash inside the bin, allowing accurate monitoring without the need for a
camera. With GSM and GPS modules, the Arduino system ensures secure and dependable
processing. The Smart Garbage Monitoring System's IoT-based application is created by
combining various modules, including ultrasonic sensors, GSM modules for wireless
communication, and GPS trackers for location data.
These modules seamlessly link to the Arduino controller, intelligently managing and
issuing alerts for efficient waste management. The effective incorporation of IoT modules is
extensively utilized to address issues associated with overflowing bins and to promptly notify
waste management staff for timely action. The IoT mechanism plays a vital role in handling
real-time complexities, managing diverse sensing environments, and providing a flexible
platform for various connections. The system serves a method for collecting data on the
garbage bin's fill level and sending alert messages to waste management authorities, ensuring
they stay informed about the status for effective waste collection.

3.1 Objectives
1) To enable real-time monitoring on fill levels of garbage bins, allowing for timely
collections and optimizing waste pickup routes.
2) To optimize resource allocation by reducing unnecessary garbage collection trips through
intelligent monitoring and scheduling based on the fill levels of bins.
3) To reduce environmental impact associated with waste management operations by
promoting more efficient resource usage.

3.2 Architectural view of the system

The provided diagram illustrates a wireless communication system utilizing an Arduino UNO
microcontroller to gather sensor data, execute processing tasks, and transmit SMS
notifications. Key components of the system include:

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• Arduino UNO microcontroller: It serves as the core processing unit, it acquires sensor
data, executes programmed instructions, and manages the GSM module.
• GPS module: Generating signals from satellites, this component determines the system
location, potentially incorporating it into SMS alerts.
• Ultrasonic sensor: Measuring object distance through sound wave emission and echo
reception, it triggers SMS alerts if the distance falls below a threshold set already.
• GSM module: Establishing communication with the cellular network, it provides SMS
alerts.
• LCD display: Presents sensor data and relevant information to the user.

Fig. 1. Architectural view of the system

Data flow within the system involves sensor data transmission to the Arduino UNO,
subsequent processing, and forwarding to the GSM module for SMS alert transmission.

Fig. 2. Proposed kit

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3.3 Modules description

3.3.1 Bin level detection

Bin level detection using an ultrasonic sensor involves a straightforward yet effective
process. The ultrasonic sensor emits high-frequency sound waves that travel towards the bin's
contents. Upon encountering an obstacle, such as the trash inside the bin, the sound waves
reflect back to the sensor. The sensor calculates the time taken for the waves to return, and
using this information, it determines the distance to the bin's contents.
The principle of ultrasonic sensor:A ultrasonic sensor comprises of two principal parts:
a transmitter (which utilizes a piezoelectric precious stone to discharge sound) and a
collector. The transmitter of the module communicates a ultrasonic sound. If something is in
the way of the ultrasonic sensor, it will reflect this sound. The reflected sound is received by
the collector present in a similar module. A ultrasonic sign is proliferated by a wave at a point
of 30°. The above-portrayed Figure delineates how the ultrasonic sign spreads from the
transmitter. Estimating points ought to be something like 15° for greatest exactness. For this
situation, outside protests that fall under this estimation point slow down deciding the
distance to the ideal article. The not set in stone by estimating the movement season of
ultrasonic sound and its speed.

3.3.2 Receiving message alerts:

The distance data is translated into the fill level of the bin. As the bin fills up, the distance
measured by the ultrasonic sensor decreases, providing a real-time indication of the fill status.
The Arduino or microcontroller receives this information and interprets it to trigger actions
based on predefined thresholds. For instance, if the fill level surpasses specified limit, an alert
is sent via GSM modules to waste management. This process ensures efficient waste
management by enabling timely interventions, optimizing collection schedules, and
preventing issues such as overflowing bins. The simplicity and accuracy of the ultrasonic
sensor make it a reliable choice for bin level detection in various smart garbage monitoring
systems.

4 Results discussion
This section presents the successful experimental results obtained from the proposed smart
garbage monitoring system utilizing Arduino as the central processing unit. The system's
effectiveness is gauged through the monitoring of fill levels in garbage bins, facilitating
optimized waste management. The status of each bin is determined through ultrasonic
sensors, providing real-time data for efficient collection. Garbage fill level prediction: The
system predicts the fill levels in garbage bins based on sensor data. When the fill level
exceeds a predefined threshold, it indicates that the bin needs attention. The system
distinguishes between non-filled and filled bins, enabling effective waste management.
System alerts and notifications : In cases where a garbage bin reaches its fill threshold,
the system initiates alerts using visual indicators and notifications. Instead of relying on a
camera, ultrasonic sensors detect the fill status. Notifications may include sms alerts to waste
management authorities, ensuring timely and targeted waste collection efforts. The system
enhances operational efficiency by directing resources to bins requiring immediate attention,
minimizing unnecessary collection trips.

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Fig. 3. When the fill levels of the bin is empty or low

Fig. 4. Medium size bin (as per set threshold)

Fig. 5. Bin is full (as per set threshold)

Fig 6. SMS alert regarding bin fill level

We will receive a SMS alert to the registered mobile number regarding bin fill information.

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Fig. 7. Location of the monitored bin filled using GPS

5 Conclusion and future enhancements

This research introduces a robust method for monitoring and optimizing the smart garbage
management system in real-time. Unlike existing techniques that often rely on periodic
manual inspections or fixed schedules for waste collection, the proposed system integrates
various components to create a efficient approach to smart garbage monitoring. The primary
components of this system involve the utilization of Arduino microcontrollers and ultrasonic
or infrared sensors to continuously monitor the fill levels of garbage bins.
The sensors detect the level of waste in each bin, and when it exceeds a predefined
threshold, the system triggers alerts for timely and targeted waste collection. The core of the
smart garbage monitoring system lies in its ability to predict and manage waste collection
dynamically. Arduino microcontrollers process data from sensors, and when the fill level
surpasses the specified limit, the system initiates notifications. These notifications can take
the form of visual indicators on a central dashboard, email alerts to waste management
authorities. The system optimizes the waste collection process by directing resources to bins
that require immediate attention, minimizing unnecessary trips and promoting a more
resource-efficient approach to waste management.
Additionally, the system includes GPS modules to geographically track the location of
each monitored garbage bin. This feature ensures that waste management authorities can
efficiently plan collection routes. By combining Arduino microcontrollers, sensors, and GPS
technology, the proposed smart garbage monitoring system offers a comprehensive and
practical solution for municipalities and waste management entities, enhancing overall
operational efficiency and promoting a more sustainable and environmentally conscious
waste management approach.

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