Smart Trash: Technological innovation for sustainable solid waste management in Cajamarca, Peru

Jhon Edi H.-H.; Medina Maria Fernanda R.; Calua V. · Proceedings of the LACCEI international Multi-conference for Engineering, Education and Technology (2026) · DOI: 10.18687/laccei2026.1.1.175

Resumen

The inadequate management of solid waste represents a critical environmental challenge, particularly in developing regions where waste segregation at the source remains limited. This study presents the design, implementation, and experimental validation of Smart Trash, an automated system based on electronic sensors and an Arduino microcontroller for the classification of household solid waste into organic, recyclable, and non-recyclable categories. The research follows an applied experimental approach, involving a sample of 30 households in Cajamarca, Peru, with a total of 1500 classification tests conducted under real operating conditions. The system integrates infrared sensors, proximity detection, and electromechanical actuators to perform automatic waste segregation. Performance was evaluated using metrics such as classification accuracy, error rate, and response time. Results indicate that the proposed system achieved an average classification efficiency of 97%, outperforming similar low-cost systems reported in the literature. The highest accuracy was observed in organic waste classification (98%), while minor errors were associated with heterogeneous or mixed materials. The average response time was below 2 seconds, demonstrating its feasibility for real-time domestic applications. The findings confirm that low-cost automation technologies can significantly improve waste segregation practices and contribute to environmental sustainability. However, limitations related to sensor sensitivity and variability in waste characteristics were identified, suggesting the need for future integration of advanced sensing technologies. The Smart Trash system represents a scalable and replicable solution with potential applications in environmental education and municipal waste management strategies.

Instituciones: Universidad Privada del Norte