Plastic ATM - An Affordable and User-Friendly Reverse Vending Machine for Plastic Recycling

This paper elaborates on the creation and functionality of the "Plastic ATM," an innovative Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) designed to make plastic bottle recycling more accessible and appealing in both public and residential environments.The pressing issue of global plastic waste demands effective recycling solutions that are budget friendly and easy to use.Traditional RVMs often encounter adoption challenges in developing regions due to their expenses and operational intricacies.The Plastic ATM overcomes these barriers by integrating inexpensive hardware components, such as Arduino or Raspberry Pi, alongside low-cost sensors and an efficient mechanism for crushing bottles.Its user-friendly ATM-like interface facilitates ease of use, allowing it to accept used PET bottles while employing sensors to verify and tally the materials.To encourage participation, the machine provides immediate incentives, including digital points or monetary credits, directly motivating users to engage with the recycling process.Comprehensive functionality tests have verified the machine's exceptional accuracy in identifying bottles and dispensing rewards, showing it can reduce manufacturing and maintenance costs by up to 50 thousand compared with commercial alternatives.Ultimately, the Plastic ATM serves as a practical, scalable, and cost-effective solution that promotes community engagement in waste management, contributing to the development of sustainable and circular economic practices.