My contributions to the research project

• Wrote the executive summary, by outlining all the details of the report in 1 page.

• Use Google`s search engine to research more on the waste management plan of Singapore`s trash and recyclables. Additionally, I used Google`s search engine to find articles that show the correlations between incinerated trash and Singapore`s landfill Pulau Semakau filling up. Equipped with my understanding, I wrote the initial portion of the background for the report. 

• Utilize Google`s search engine to identify and find statistics of the main contributing factors (contamination and improperly placed materials) that result in the low recycling rate in Singapore (13% recycled only). Additionally, I researched the amount of garbage generated (1.82 million metric tons) and worked with Nefin on writing the segments of problems faced by Blue Bins.

• Utilized Google`s search engine to understand more about the benefits of recycling properly, which led to my understanding of the 3 benefits (reduce incinerated trash, prolonge Pulau Semakau`s lifespan, and reduce carbon emission). Additionally, used Google`s search engine to find statistics on the impact of recycling ( one ton of paper saves 17 trees) how much energy is produced from waste to energy incineration plants, and how the current practice of burning trash in WTE plants is unsustainable. Equipped with the knowledge, I wrote the benefits of recycling properly segment.

• Utilized Google`s search engine to research more on the technology available with regards to bin-level sensors, which led to my discovery of already existing solutions such as products made by Ecube Labs, that can be incorporated into Garbage Guardian. Further research on the company, also led to the discovery of a compressor product, designed for bins that are similar to our design for Garbage Guardian.

• Work on the benefits segment for both NEA and users by stipulating how the extensive features will benefit the stakeholders.

• Utilize Google`s search engine to understand how would the maintenance of the features such as the sensors, solar panels, and compress would affect garbage guardian and our plans to counter the limitation, and wrote it under the Evaluation segment.