Applications of Blockchain Technology in Real-World Waste Management

FREMONT, CA: The waste management process entails several processes, including trash segregation, transportation, recycling, disposal, and waste data analysis. Governments cannot track these waste management procedures. This is because the volume and variety of these operations and the data related to the generator waste are pretty substantial. Additionally, it requires multiple persons to participate throughout the waste management cycle, which complicates tracking. Having a centralized tracking system for all waste management activities can assist governments in resolving waste management concerns. Blockchain technology has the potential to be that centralized platform. Trash management with blockchain technology enables the tracking of waste from production to disposal, resulting in a greener environment.

The decentralized system that distinguishes blockchain from other technologies enables governments to oversee all waste management activities, including:

Recognize and reward waste segregation: Numerous governments and private organizations have taken the initiative to promote trash segregation at the household level.

For instance, Recerreum is a blockchain network that rewards users based on the amount of waste they sort. It does it by deploying rubbish bins equipped with RFID tags and sensors. Individuals can create accounts on the blockchain platform by scanning tags. When a person discards separated waste, sensors installed in bins determine the quantity of rubbish. The data is uploaded to the blockchain platform, where intelligent contracts determine the monetary incentive for waste segregation. It then automatically conducts operations to transfer the award to the recipient's bank account.

Waste tracking in real-time: The blockchain enables real-time waste management tracking. It enables tracking of waste collected, who collected it, and where it is recycled or disposed of. For example, Arep, an SNCF company, already utilizes blockchain technology to track rubbish at railway stations. It utilizes blockchain technology to collect extensive information about all waste bins through Bluetooth. Bluetooth technology permits constant monitoring of the amount of waste in bins. Additionally, it captures data on which waste managers emptied the bin and how it was recycled or disposed of—these insights aid in identifying waste management difficulties and facilitating garbage management within railway stations.

Providing security for data transactions: There are numerous methods for recycling or disposing of garbage. The type of garbage determines the approach to use. Plastic trash, for example, can be recycled; hazardous wastes, on the other hand, might be disposed of in landfills. However, to choose the optimal technique, waste management firms must have sufficient precise data on the waste they collect. However, data is occasionally compromised as a result of human error. Blockchain technology can assist in eliminating human error and ensuring data accuracy throughout the waste management process. Once the quantity and kind of waste are determined, collectors can upload the data to the blockchain network. Each individual participating in the waste management process can then access the blockchain data to make informed decisions.

Governments may empower citizens to fulfill their responsibilities to their country by implementing a blockchain-based trash management platform. Paying tokens for domestic trash segregation will encourage everyone to engage in the waste management movement. This will improve waste management, beginning with the generation of waste. And it will finally result in a world that is more sustainable.