SAMSUNG SFT 3.
0
1) Describe the problem within "Environment & Sustainability" that you are trying to
solve.
The primary environmental problem of urban organic waste significantly contributes to landfill
mass, leading to methane production and potential soil and water pollution due to leachate.
This issue is further compounded by the underutilization of organic materials, which could
otherwise enhance soil health and reduce our dependency on chemical fertilizers.
In many cities, a large portion of landfill content is biodegradable waste from households.
This anaerobic decomposition occurring in the landfills due to insufficient oxygen supply
leads to methane production, a greenhouse gas with a global warming potential 25 times
greater than that of carbon dioxide.
There is also a missed opportunity in the form of compost. This resource could support soil
health and biodiversity which we are trying to solve for tomorrow with our smart indoor home
composter.
2) Describe, in detail, the solution you will provide to solve the problem.
Our IoT-enhanced smart indoor home composter transforms kitchen waste into compost,
leveraging sensor technology for optimal microbial activity and decomposition. Users
deposit waste into the shredding system, which is then monitored and adjusted via IoT for
moisture, temperature, and pH levels.
Mechanism and Technology: Our smart composter features an integrated shredding system
that breaks down waste into small pieces, increasing the surface area for microbes. An
aeration system ensures ample oxygen supply, essential for aerobic decomposition, which
unlike anaerobic processes, does not produce methane. Temperature and moisture sensors
maintain optimal composting conditions, automated to adjust internal parameters for best
results. The compost is stirred regularly by an automated mechanism to ensure even
decomposition and prevent odor buildup.
Microbial and Enzymatic Enhancement: We are introducing a tailored mix of aerobic bacteria
and fungi that thrive on kitchen waste, alongside enzymes that break down fibrous and
starchy substances, speeding up the composting process.
We can also integrate our device for remote monitoring and data analysis, promoting user
engagement and environmental awareness.
Design and Technology:
- Structure: The composter would typically be a cylindrical or cube-shaped device with
insulated walls to retain heat, helping accelerate the composting process.
- Shredding Mechanism: At the top, there would be a lid with a built-in shredder or
grinder that chops the organic waste into smaller pieces. This increases the surface area,
enhancing microbial activity.
- Aeration System: An aeration system, possibly using small, battery-powered fans or a
manually operated crank, would be incorporated to provide the necessary oxygen for aerobic
decomposition.
- Temperature and Moisture Sensors: These sensors monitor the internal environment to
maintain optimal conditions for composting. They can adjust parameters like moisture level
and temperature automatically.
- Compost Stirrer: A mechanical stirrer or turning mechanism mixes the compost
regularly to ensure even decomposition and prevent odor build-up.
3) How will your solution related to "Environment & Sustainability" create an impact
in the society?
By integrating composting into daily household routines, our solution directly reduces the
volume of waste reaching landfills, thereby cutting down methane emissions and the risk of
soil and water pollution from leachate. The compost produced can replace chemical
fertilizers, reducing the demand for these energy-intensive products and enhancing soil
health. This, in turn, supports biodiversity and promotes healthier plant growth, which can
improve air quality and contribute to urban green spaces. Educationally, the composter
serves as a practical tool for raising awareness about waste management and
sustainability. It empowers users to take actionable steps towards environmental
stewardship in their daily lives, promoting a culture of sustainability and responsibility
towards waste generation and disposal.
4) How is your idea different from the existing ones?
Unlike many traditional composters that require manual mixing and monitoring, our device
automates these processes, making it user-friendly and more accessible to people without
prior composting experience. Additionally, the integration of advanced sensors and the
option for solar power distinguish our system by enhancing its efficiency and sustainability.
Our composter stands out by integrating IoT technology for a smarter, more interactive
composting experience. This allows for automated adjustments and real-time feedback,
making it significantly easier for users to operate with our device on a day-to-day basis.
5) Does your team have any experience in implementing this idea on-ground?
Our team combines specialized expertise in IoT, waste management, and environmental
science, and has been actively engaged in various sustainability-oriented projects. We have
initiated the design and prototyping phases, focusing on the functionality chambers to ensure
our product innovatively integrates all necessary elements for efficient composting. Although
this project is still in the developmental phase, we are already conducting pilot tests in
real-world settings and continuously refining our system based on user feedback. This
strategic approach, blending technology with environmental science, enables us to tackle
practical challenges effectively and sets a solid foundation for scaling our solution more
broadly.
Indoor Composter Mechanism and Science
An indoor composter designed for biodegradable waste typically integrates several
components to efficiently break down organic materials into usable compost. Here’s a
detailed breakdown of its mechanism and the underlying science:
Mechanism
1. Input Chamber: Users deposit biodegradable waste such as food scraps, paper, and
natural fibers into this chamber.
2. Shredding System: Equipped with blades or grinders, this system chops the waste into
smaller pieces, increasing the surface area for microbes to act upon and speeding up the
decomposition process.
3. Aerobic Decomposition Chamber: Here, controlled ventilation or aeration systems
provide oxygen that aerobic bacteria require to break down the waste. The chamber
maintains optimal conditions (like temperature and humidity) to facilitate rapid composting.
4. Microbial Inoculation: Microorganisms, either naturally occurring or added as compost
starters, accelerate the decomposition. These can include specific strains of bacteria, fungi,
and in some cases, engineered enzymes.
5. Odor Control: Filters and neutralizers manage odors, making the system suitable for
indoor use.
6. Humidity and Temperature Control: Sensors monitor and adjust internal conditions to
maintain the ideal temperature and humidity for composting, which are crucial for efficient
microbial activity.
7. Compost Collection Tray: The final product, organic compost, collects in a tray at the
bottom of the composter, ready for use or further maturation.
Science Behind It
The science focuses on the biological decomposition of organic matter. Aerobic bacteria play
a crucial role by breaking down complex organic compounds into simpler substances. The
process releases carbon dioxide, water, and heat, and ultimately produces humus—a
nutrient-rich material. Key factors influencing the process include:
- Temperature: Microbial activity is optimal in a warm environment (around 40-60°C),
accelerating decomposition.
- Oxygen Supply: Aerobic bacteria require oxygen, making aeration crucial.
- Moisture: The moisture content must be balanced—not too wet or dry—to support
microbial life without creating anaerobic conditions.
Application and Impact on Environment and Sustainability
Mechanism for an Indoor Composter
1. Design and Technology:
- Structure: The composter would typically be a cylindrical or cube-shaped device with
insulated walls to retain heat, helping accelerate the composting process.
- Shredding Mechanism: At the top, there would be a lid with a built-in shredder or
grinder that chops the organic waste into smaller pieces. This increases the surface area,
enhancing microbial activity.
- Aeration System: An aeration system, possibly using small, battery-powered fans or a
manually operated crank, would be incorporated to provide the necessary oxygen for aerobic
decomposition.
- Temperature and Moisture Sensors: These sensors monitor the internal environment to
maintain optimal conditions for composting. They can adjust parameters like moisture level
and temperature automatically.
- Compost Stirrer: A mechanical stirrer or turning mechanism mixes the compost
regularly to ensure even decomposition and prevent odor build-up.
2. Microbial Acceleration:
- Microbe Mix: Introducing a mix of bacteria and fungi specifically suited for breaking down
kitchen waste can be added to initiate and accelerate the composting process.
- Enzyme Enhancements: Enzymes could be added to break down complex organic
compounds faster, speeding up the composting process.
Science Behind Indoor Composting
Aerobic Composting: The process relies on aerobic bacteria, which require oxygen to
break down organic materials into simpler compounds. The byproduct of this decomposition
is carbon dioxide, water, and heat. The process also significantly reduces the volume of the
waste as it decomposes.
Microbial Activity: The effectiveness of composting largely depends on the activity level of
microbes, which can be enhanced by maintaining the right balance of carbon and
nitrogen-rich materials, moisture, and temperature within the composter.
Addressing Questions on Environmental Impact and Sustainability
1. Environmental & Sustainability Problem Being Addressed:
- Waste Reduction: Urban areas produce large amounts of organic waste which
contributes to landfill mass. These landfills are significant sources of methane, a potent
greenhouse gas.
- Resource Mismanagement: Organic waste can be converted into valuable compost, but
it often goes underutilized, leading to unnecessary exploitation of natural resources for
chemical fertilizers.
2. Detailed Solution and Its Environmental Impact:
- Local Waste Processing: By converting kitchen waste into compost within the
household, the device reduces the volume of waste going to landfills, thus lowering methane
emissions.
- Reduction in Chemical Fertilizers: The produced compost can be used as a natural
fertilizer, reducing the dependence on chemical alternatives, which are energy-intensive to
produce and can degrade soil health over time.
- Educational Impact: Implementing such solutions on a household level increases
awareness about waste separation and the benefits of composting, promoting more
sustainable behaviors.
- Energy Efficiency: By optimizing the composting process through technological
solutions, the overall energy footprint of waste management can be reduced.
3. Sustainability Aspects:
- Material Use: The composter would be made from durable, recycled, and recyclable
materials wherever possible, supporting the circular economy.
- Energy Consumption: Designed to be energy-efficient, it would use minimal electrical
power for operation, potentially integrating solar panels for energy autonomy.
- Long-term Soil Health: Using compost improves soil structure, fertility, and moisture
retention, leading to better plant health and reduced water usage.
