Building the Deep Waste App with DemocracyLab

If you've ever stood in front of a row of waste bins, wondering where that wrapper in your hand belongs, then you need to check out the Deep Waste app. Founded by Suman Kunwar in 2022, Deep Waste is an AI-powered app designed to identify different types of waste and guide users on proper disposal methods. The app also offers educational resources on waste management and tracks users' progress, helping them build sustainable habits over time.

Growing up in Kathmandu, I witnessed firsthand how poor waste practices led to serious health problems, with people falling ill and even losing their lives due to contamination from landfills. The idea for Deep Waste ignited when I witnessed uncollected trash piling up in my neighborhood. Struggling with confusing recycling guidelines, I realized many others faced similar challenges. Motivated by the urgency to combat climate change, I envisioned an accessible app that simplifies waste management.

Suman’s desire to collaborate with environmentally conscious individuals such as himself led him to DemocracyLab, an online marketplace that helps tech for good projects further their mission with support from skilled volunteers.

Setting up the Deep Waste project on DemocracyLab was seamless. The platform provided clear steps for creating a project profile, detailing our mission, and specifying the skills we needed in volunteers. The recruitment process was equally straightforward, allowing us to attract individuals passionate about sustainability and technology. DemocracyLab’s structure made it easy for us to connect with volunteers who align with our vision for using AI to address waste management challenges.

DemocracyLab connected Deep Waste with two volunteers who have collectively contributed around 240 hours to the project, supporting AI development and app design. Debbie Alvarado Latino, a UX Design volunteer, helped revamp the app to create a smoother user journey. The team also participated in the Earth-a-thon, a hackathon organized by DemocracyLab, where they gained valuable insights into how different projects address diverse challenges.

User flow paper sketches by Debbie Alvarado Latino

Effective waste management begins with proper waste segregation—a practice that’s more critical than ever with the rise of online shopping and growing trash accumulation. Deep Waste’s goal is to tackle this challenge head-on. If you’re passionate about climate tech and sustainability, and excited to enable Deep Waste’s mission, consider joining the project! The team is currently working on interesting challenges such as adding plastic identification capabilities and a reward system to the app. They’re looking for dedicated problem solvers eager to leverage advanced technology to make a difference. If that sounds like you, apply here.

Deep Waste is a project driven by the vision of a cleaner, more sustainable world, and volunteers who are genuinely enthusiastic about tackling environmental challenges are incredibly valuable.

Fun fact: As of Oct 2024, Deep Waste has preserved a total of 6,204.59 kg of CO₂ across 128 leaderboard entries! To join the movement & create meaningful impact — download the app here.

About DemocracyLab:

DemocracyLab is an open marketplace that connects Tech-For-Good projects with volunteers.

If you’re looking for an experiential learning opportunity to hone your skills or an avenue to create social impact by sharing your wisdom, explore the 200+ projects listed on our website.

If skilled talent is what you need to further your mission, register your organization on our platform to find volunteers.

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