myecoapp: AI-Powered Recycling Companion for DAERA
Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs of Northern Ireland, Fermanagh & Omagh District Council, Derry & Strabane District Council and Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council
Services
Sustainable App Development, Machine Learning Integration, User-Centric Design, Gamified eLearning, Environmental Behaviour Change
Project Goals
- Enhance recycling behaviours through personalised, AI-driven recommendations
- Simplify recycling processes with intuitive, user-friendly interfaces
- Incorporate gamification to motivate and reward sustainable actions
- Provide real-time, location-specific recycling information
Our Solution
The development of myecoapp involves a multidisciplinary approach, combining technology and design to create an engaging user experience:
- Machine Learning Algorithms: Analyse individual recycling habits to offer tailored suggestions, adapting over time to improve effectiveness.
- User-Centric Design: Develop intuitive interfaces that guide users through recycling tasks, making the process accessible to all age groups.
- Gamification Elements: Implement features like ‘eco-scores’, rewards, and challenges to encourage consistent user engagement.
- AI-Powered Scanning: Enable users to identify recyclable materials quickly using image recognition technology.
- Voice-Activated Assistance: Integrate with virtual assistants (e.g., Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant) to provide instant recycling guidance.
Impact
While still in development, myecoapp has garnered attention for its innovative approach to promoting environmental sustainability:
- Behavioural Change: Early user feedback indicates increased awareness and improvement in recycling habits.
- Community Engagement: The app fosters a sense of community by allowing users to share achievements and participate in collective challenges.
- Educational Value: Provides informative content that educates users on proper recycling practices and environmental impact.
Technologies Used
- Machine Learning Frameworks: For personalised recommendation systems.
- Mobile Development Platforms: To ensure cross-platform compatibility.
- Cloud Services: For data storage and real-time analytics.
- Voice Recognition APIs: To facilitate voice-activated features.
Ongoing Development
Set to launch in Autumn 2025, myecoapp represents a significant step forward in leveraging technology to promote sustainable living. By combining AI, user-focused design, and gamification, the app aims to make recycling more accessible, engaging, and effective for users worldwide.
