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Eco-Solution
Problem Statement:
The current e-waste collection system in Singapore uses static bins, which don't provide real-time data, leading to inefficient
collections. Without timely information, pickups are scheduled regardless of how full the bins are, causing unnecessary trips
during busy times like festive seasons and minimal or no collection on regular days.
To solve this issue, METech Recycling has proposed deploying SG Recycle intelligent machines at 140 locations across Singapore,
with a long-term goal of expanding to 250 locations. This aims to improve the under-recycling of e-waste in the country. These
intelligent machines will provide real-time data and improve collection efficiency, although they will require additional power
from the national grid. (Refer to Figure 7)
Figure 7: Information on the SG Recycle intelligent machine
With the actual power consumption data from equipment Future implementation for 250 locations: ≈ 92,125 kg CO2/
specifications, we can recalculate the CO2 emissions. year (250 × 368.5 kg CO2/year)
Based on 26 locations, the current distance travelled by EV
Power consumption = 2.4 kWh for the collection of e-waste from static bins is estimated to
Number of days in a year = 365 be around 416km per week. This will be around 21,632 km
Total energy consumption per year: 2.4 kWh/day × 365 days/ per year.
year = 882 kWh/year The EV is estimated to consume 0.2 kWh per km; thus, ener-
CO2 emissions = Energy consumption × Conversion ratio = 882 gy from the grid per year will be 4,326.4kWh.
kWh/year × 0.4168 kg CO2/kWh ≈ 368.5 kg CO2/year CO2 emissions from EV = 4,325.4kWh/year x 0.4168 kg CO2/
kWh = 1,802.8 kg CO2/year.
Now, let's evaluate this value:
For a single location: ≈ 368.5 kg CO2/year Assuming 50% of the trip did not collect any e-waste, around
For 140 locations: ≈ 51,430 kg CO2/year (140 × 368.5 kg CO2/ 901.4 kg CO2 emission /year can be saved if the trip did not
year) occur.
Mean CO2 emissions saved will be 901.4/26 =34.7 kg / year
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