Baguio City is enhancing its waste management system with innovative technology developed by students from the University of the Cordilleras.
As reported on 24 Oras' Game Changer segment by Martin Javier, the local government has acquired 10 units of the Baraki smart trash cans, priced at P50,000 each, following a successful pilot test in July 2023.
Baraki, which stands for Basurahang "Taraki" (beautifying the environment), is a solar-powered, automated trash can equipped with motion sensors for opening and closing, and capacity monitoring to ensure timely waste collection. These units are weatherproof and feature a real-time notification system to alert when full and to prevent overflows by refusing to open.
This six-month project, completed in 2022, was spearheaded by a group of engineering students, including Samuel Sta. Cruz and AJ Mosquete. "In Baguio City, garbage overflow is a persistent issue. Baraki helps ensure bins are only emptied when needed," noted Sta. Cruz.
In addition to Baraki, the students developed Alertrash, a web-based system launched in November 2023, to report waste disposal violations and promote zero waste. This system has been tested in several barangays across Baguio, providing a centralized platform for residents to report issues and for local authorities to respond promptly.
"Immediate response to waste violations in tagged barangays is a significant advantage," said Alertrash developer Stefany Caliao.
With these innovations, Baguio City is taking a significant step towards efficient and sustainable waste management.
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