Project Overview
Context
Ecolink is an integrated environmental platform that combines a mobile application with a network of smart waste collection stations, known as Ecopoints. The project is built on the pillars of technology, gamification, and education to create a seamless and rewarding recycling experience.
The system is designed to guide users through the entire process: from learning how to correctly separate materials, to locating the nearest smart station, to receiving immediate feedback and incentives for their contributions. The mobile app serves as the user's hub for educational content, activity tracking, and redeeming rewards. A key component of the initiative is its collaborative approach, working alongside local waste picker cooperatives and leveraging social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok to amplify its educational reach and community engagement.
Problem Statement
The improper disposal of waste represents a significant environmental challenge that undermines sustainability efforts in communities. Currently, there is a widespread lack of effective systems to guide people in proper waste separation, leading to low recycling rates due to contamination of recyclable materials, insufficient awareness about correct waste disposal practices, limited accessibility to proper waste collection points, and no incentive system to encourage sustainable behaviors.
This problem is exacerbated by high consumption patterns and rapid waste generation, where different types of waste (paper, plastic, organic, electronic) are constantly produced without adequate separation mechanisms.
Ecolink addresses these challenges through an integrated technological solution that educates, guides, and incentivizes proper waste disposal practices.
Objectives and Scope
Objectives
- Increase the qualified recycling rate in the Federal District.
- Educate users on proper waste sanitation and separation practices.
- Engage University of Brasília (UnB) students through gamification and academic incentives.
- Develop an intuitive app with Ecopoint location services, user history, and deposit tracking.
- Build working prototypes of smart Ecopoints capable of identifying different recyclable materials.
- Produce and publish educational content in partnership with waste pickers on social media platforms.
Scope
Included:
- Mobile application with areas for users and employees.
- Functionality to register drop-offs and track user activity.
- Integration with UnB's academic credit system.
- Development and prototyping of smart Ecopoints.
- Execution of awareness campaigns via Instagram and TikTok.
- Production of video and visual educational content.
Not Included:
- Deployment beyond UnB (in this initial phase).
- Collection of waste materials other than cans and bottles.
- Advanced physical security features for Ecopoints (future consideration).
- Monitoring of external or non-controlled environments.
Key Features and Deliverables
| Feature / Deliverable | Description |
|---|---|
| Ecolink App | Enables users to locate Ecopoints, register recyclable drop-offs, and track performance. |
| Gamification System | Encourages recycling through a point system convertible into academic credits. |
| Educational Content | Videos and posts produced with waste pickers to promote proper recycling practices. |
| Smart Ecopoint Prototype | Intelligent bin capable of recognizing different materials (e.g., by weight or type). |
| Social Media Campaigns | Engagement through Instagram and TikTok, with awareness posts and video content. |
| Documentation & Research | Studies on feasibility, benchmarking, and prototyping documentation. |
| Communication | WhatsApp (for informal communication), Discord (for online meetings and development status updates) |
Technologies and Tools
| Area | Tools and Technologies |
|---|---|
| Backend | Node.js or Python; PostgreSQL for structured data. |
| Frontend | React Native or Flutter for cross-platform mobile development. |
| Hardware | Arduino or Raspberry Pi; sensors for weight or material detection. |
| Gamification | Points and achievements system tied to real-life impact and credit conversion. |
| Social Media | Instagram, TikTok, Canva/Figma for content planning and visual identity. |
| Integrations | UnB’s academic system, geolocation APIs for map and Ecopoint discovery. |
Timeline
| Phase | Estimated Duration | Key Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1: Research & Planning | Months 0–2 | Market studies, stakeholder engagement, tech scope definition. |
| Phase 2: Initial Development | Months 2–5 | App prototype, Ecopoint concept, content creation. |
| Phase 3: Validation & Integration | Months 5–8 | User testing, feedback-based adjustments. |
| Phase 4: Launch & Expansion | Months 8–12 | Integration with UnB system, Pilot launch, social media rollout, data collection, and performance review. |
Expected Impact
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Increased Recycling | Promotes better recycling habits and increases the rate of qualified waste disposal. |
| Environmental Awareness | Educates the community with real-world guidance from waste professionals. |
| Student Engagement | Offers students meaningful participation and academic benefits. |
| Scalability Potential | Can be replicated in other institutions and communities. |
Revision History
| Date | Version | Changes | Authors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 03/28/2024 | 0.1 | Document creation | Cainã Freitas and Lucas Antunes |
| 04/08/2025 | 0.2 | Update document with ecolink information | Mateus Vieira |
| 2025-03-25 | 0.3 | Update document | Vinícius Rufino |
Se quiser, posso aplicar esse padrão em outros arquivos da documentação também — só me avisar!