Wasteplacer

Problem

Everybody produces waste. However, people tend to lack understanding regarding the impact of the waste they produce.
Numerous actions, from incorrectly disposing a pizza box to overbuying groceries, can have significant environmental repercussions.

Solution

Targetting the problems of incorrect sorting, overconsumption and apathy,
Wasteplacer is a smart bin system that assists in correct sorting and developing eco-friendly disposal habits.

The System

Take a quick look at the Wasteplacer smart bin system.

Smart Bins

The Wasteplacer consists of three bins, an interactive panel and item scanner. The bins display images of incorrectly sorted items that disappear once the items are removed.

Interactive Panel

The interactive panel allows users to track waste habits over time and assists in sorting by scanning and identifying items.

Item Scanner

The item scanner determines which bin an item belongs. When an item is disposed, an internal scanner double-checks the placement and gives appropriate feedback.

Feedback

Correct disposal increments the streak and provides tips
to further improve waste disposal habits.

Incorrect disposal zeroes the streak and highlights
the environmental impact of the action with a fact.

Design Process

See how we got to where we are!

Design Research

In the beginning, we interviewed individuals to learn how they disposed of their waste, why they chose to sort in certain ways, and to what degree they felt their actions impacted the environment.
Initial Design

Based on research results, we formulated one smart phone and two smart bin design ideas. We chose to move forward with the phone application because it allows people to sort waste wherever and whenever.
Pivot to Smart Bin

After collecting feedback from users, we realized a phone application was too heavyweight. We pivoted to the household smart bin system which improves disposal habits on a community-level through teamwork. We further refined the design after several heuristic evaluations and usability tests.
Finalizing Wasteplacer

Finally, we converted the paper prototype of Wasteplacer into a complete digital mockup!