An IoT-Enabled Smart Waste Management System with Real-Time GPS Tracking, Automated Containment Locking, and Fire Safety Subroutines

Abstract

AbstractInefficient urban waste management poses severe environmental and public health challenges in developing smart cities. Traditional collection relies heavily on manual scheduling, leading to overflowing bins and unhygienic conditions. This paper presents the design and implementation of an automated, low-cost smart waste management prototype utilizing edge-based sensing and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. The proposed system utilizes an Arduino UNO microcontroller integrated with dual ultrasonic sensors to handle touchless automatic lid operation and continuous fill-level tracking. Real-time telemetry data is transmitted via a Wi-Fi communication module to a centralized mobile application interface, generating automated alert notifications when the container reaches maximum threshold capacity. Experimental testing demonstrates stable sensor calibration, touchless proximity response, and reliable data synchronization, offering a scalable blueprint to improve municipal waste collection efficiency and promote sustainable urban hygiene.