Six students, under the mentorship and guidance of Dr. Bùi Thị Thanh Hương (University of Education, Vietnam National University, Hanoi), have developed the Smart Waste Recycling Social Network project.
“Smart Waste Recycling Social Network” is the name of a project created by the 3SR research group, consisting of six students mentored by Dr. Bùi Thị Thanh Hương from the University of Education – Vietnam National University, Hanoi.
The idea originated from the reality that the rapid development of human society has caused global waste generation to exceed alarming levels. Governments and organizations are seeking ways to recycle and reuse waste to keep the environment clean and serve the needs of the population.
Understanding this challenge, the research team worked together to develop technological products that help communities classify, process, and recycle waste into useful products.
The team’s goal is to create a platform that connects communities — including teachers, parents, and students — to jointly build an urban lifestyle based on waste sorting, recycling, and reuse. Schools will have the opportunity to access environmental education programs and provide students with modern life skills through a STEM approach, fostering environmental awareness from an early age. The project also aims to link corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives with social and political organizations to encourage waste-sorting habits at the source, promote recycling and reuse, and encourage resource-saving behaviors by collecting and redeeming waste for consumer goods for teachers, students, and parents. It also fosters community connections, sharing, and charitable activities to support disadvantaged groups while contributing to environmental protection and building a sustainable future for Vietnam.
Currently, the Smart Waste Recycling Social Network (SMART RECYCLES – 3SR) is built on three core pillars:
- SR1: Mobile App / Web platform
- SR2: STEM RECYCLES – a virtual recycling school
- SR3: STARTUP RECYCLES – an innovation ecosystem for recycling technology
The project offers the following key products:
- SR1: A social networking app for household waste classification and recycling, along with a web server to display and store social activity data.
- SR2: A waste recycling education program for all levels from kindergarten to high school, designed with a STEM-based curriculum.
- SR3: Several experimental STEM education products, including organic waste decomposition technologies for producing nutrient solutions, substrates, biogas, and biochar; smart compost bins for organic waste; and smart bins equipped with color-sensing and waste-level sensors.
3SR is actively promoted across various media channels to help the public better understand the benefits of using the “Smart Waste Recycling Social Network.”
Among them, the 3SR-Channel is the most popular, featuring engaging and creative educational content in the form of STEAM-themed videos.
Reusing excess paper waste at home is presented as a simple activity that can produce aesthetically pleasing and practical products. Moreover, 3SR-Channel continuously updates audiences on the latest recycling practices and innovations.
Currently, 3SR (in the education segment) is a new technology-based business solution that has no equivalent on the market.
The team plans to use the SR1 app in combination with logistics platforms such as GrabFood, GrabExpress, and Bee to facilitate the efficient collection and processing of large volumes of waste.
The 3SR online business model — a smart waste recycling social network (education segment) — is currently being implemented in schools across Hanoi.
The research team hopes the project will attract investment and resources from political organizations, social groups, and grant funds to support its sustainable development.
Source: giaoduc.net.vn