An Arduino-Based Plastic Bottle Vending Machine to Support Environmental Awareness for Barangay Muzon, Taytay Rizal
In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
Barangay Muzon, Taytay, Rizal is a lively and growing community where residents go about their daily routines, often using plastic bottles and other modern conveniences. As the community continues to develop, there is a growing interest in finding creative ways to engage residents in activities that benefit both them and the environment.
Plastic bottles are often improperly disposed of, contributing to pollution and clogged drainage systems throughout the barangay. A major challenge in the community is the lack of convenience and motivation for residents to recycle. Many residents are willing to help keep the barangay clean but often find it difficult to store and bring recyclables to proper disposal points.
Technology has opened up new possibilities to make recycling more fun, interactive, and rewarding. Incentive-based and interactive projects not only capture people's interest but also help build habits that can last a lifetime.
To examine the effectiveness of an Arduino-based plastic bottle vending machine as a tool for promoting recycling behavior among residents of Barangay Muzon, Taytay, Rizal.
Barangay Muzon, Taytay, Rizal — a growing residential community where plastic bottle mismanagement contributes to local pollution and drainage problems.
Residents receive free drinks or biscuits in exchange for each valid plastic bottle deposited — a practical, tangible incentive proven to encourage participation.
Assess the feasibility of using an Arduino-based vending machine for the collection of plastic bottles in a community setting like Barangay Muzon, Taytay, Rizal.
Determine the accuracy and reliability of sensor-based detection in identifying and counting plastic bottles inserted into the machine.
Analyze the effectiveness of a reward-based mechanism — specifically free drinks and biscuits — in encouraging individuals to participate in recycling activities.
Evaluate the level of environmental awareness and participation in recycling among residents before and after the implementation of the vending machine.
Measure the overall effectiveness of the vending machine in promoting sustainable waste management practices within Barangay Muzon, Taytay, Rizal.
The machine encourages recycling by offering free products in exchange for plastic bottles, fostering responsible waste management habits.
Supports local waste management efforts by providing an efficient system for collecting and managing plastic waste within the barangay.
The project provides a model for other communities to implement similar incentive-based recycling initiatives.
Offers businesses an opportunity to contribute to environmental sustainability while engaging directly with the local community.
Strengthens the department's academic programs by integrating practical, technology-driven solutions and community-based innovation.
Serves as a useful reference for studies related to recycling, environmental awareness, and the use of Arduino technology in community settings.
A small microcontroller board that controls the machine's sensors, gate, and bottle counting automatically, and sends transaction data to the web system over WiFi.
An automated device that accepts used plastic bottles from residents and credits points to their account in return, redeemable later for small rewards.
An electronic component that detects when a plastic bottle is inserted into the machine and helps count it accurately so the right number of points is credited.
A system that motivates residents to recycle by crediting points for every bottle deposited, which residents later redeem for free items or incentives.
A special type of vending machine where people deposit empty containers, and the machine credits a reward or incentive in return.
Understanding why it is important to keep the community clean, reduce plastic pollution, and properly dispose of waste materials.
A sensor that detects metal objects. It runs first and takes priority — if it senses metal, the item is rejected immediately, before any other check happens.
A sensor that detects plastic material. It confirms an object is actually plastic before the machine opens its gate and accepts it.
A sensor that measures distance and is used to detect when the machine's storage bin is already full, and to validate bottle size.
A reward given to encourage residents to participate in recycling activities and develop environmentally responsible habits.
The specific community in Taytay, Rizal where the study was conducted and the vending machine was deployed and tested.