Singapore has a low and declining recycling rate. Our capstone group has partnered with MSO and NEA to understand the reasons for the low recycling rate, and create a solution to motivate residents to recycle more and recycle right.

We conducted a public survey to investigate the causes of the current low recycling rate. The survey collected people's opinions about recycling and their existing recycling habits. It also tested the respondent's knowledge of recycling in Singapore, to understand how much people knew about recycling correctly.

Additionally, a series of anonymous interviews were carried out with residents
in the east about current recycling initiatives. Feedback on how the initiatives
could be improved was collected too.

Bin It Right comprises of 4 components that work together to address pain points during one's recycling journey. The Sensor System and the Bin Flap are integrated into current recycling bins, creating a bin that is more convenient and hygienic to recycle with. The Information Campaign and the Spatial Design help educate the public on the correct ways to recycle.

The addition of a sensor system allows us to track airborne contaminants in real-time and provide fast feedback.

1. Measures 5 parameters to provide an accurate state of the bin interior

2. External Display Screen alerts users of the state of the bin (clean/dirty)

The new Bin Flap provides several key benefits over current recycling bin. 

1. 1. Non 90° surface prevents users from leaving objects and litter on top of the bin
2. 2. New Lid Flap has a question on it to provoke thought from users to deter improper recycling
3. 3. The addition of handlebars provide a cleaner surface to access the bin, while preventing pests from entering the bin

The information campaign builds upon the current recycling campaign, modifying it such that more emphasis is placed on checking and cleaning recyclables. It consists of two sub-component, the General Poster, and the Bin Posters.

1. Incorporates NEA's current recycling strategy

2. Reorganizes the information displayed

1. Key Information on the front of the bin

2. An extended non-exhaustive list of recyclables and non-recyclables on the left of the bin

3. Fun facts and statistics to impart recycling knowledge to the public on the right of the bin 

The Spatial Design reimagines the space around a community recycling bin. With added features, users will be more open to incorporate recycling into their lifestyles 

1. Provides visual and tactile information on recyclables

2. Design easily captures attention and is accessible to all

3. Floor stickers act as way-finders to recycling bins and display recycling facts too

4. Encourages user interaction via clothespins

5. Keeps users motivated to recycle more 

To evaluate the effectiveness of Bin It Right, a series of user tests were carried out. Participants were evaluated on their recycling knowledge before and after experiencing the project. The user test saw that participants immediately benefitted significantly after experiencing the project, with 50% of the participants answering correctly after the experience, compared to 10% correct before the experience.

Participants were polled whether they wanted Bin It Right to be implemented in their neighbourhoods. 70% agreed, with some envisioning it in other community public spaces as well. To ensure that Bin It Right is effective in encouraging residents to recycle more and right, we collected comments and feedback for improvement from participants as seen below.