The Role of IoT in Waste Management and Sustainability

Abstract

This research investigates the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies in waste management and sustainability practices in major Indian cities, addressing the critical gap in empirical data on IoT's effectiveness in this sector. The study focuses on five municipalities: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Bangalore. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research combines quantitative data on waste generation and recycling rates with qualitative insights from stakeholder interviews. Key findings reveal significant discrepancies in waste generation rates, with cities like Delhi and Mumbai exhibiting the highest figures. Recycling rates varied, with Chennai achieving the highest at 35% and Kolkata the lowest at 15%, highlighting the need for localized strategies. Operational efficiency metrics indicated that Chennai benefits the most from IoT integration, showcasing shorter waste collection times and higher fleet utilization. However, challenges such as infrastructure inadequacies, data privacy concerns, and cost constraints were prevalent, particularly in Kolkata. Stakeholder perspectives were mixed, reflecting optimism about IoT's potential and concerns about its implementation complexities. The study concludes that while IoT can significantly enhance waste management efficiency and sustainability, overcoming infrastructural and resource barriers, ensuring data security, and fostering stakeholder confidence are crucial for successful adoption. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners aiming to leverage IoT for sustainable urban waste management.