Economic analysis of the waste collection automation with PRESKO system

Waste management companies have been experiencing a steady increase in operational costs in recent years, driven by a combination of regulatory, environmental, and logistical factors. One of the most cost-intensive components of municipal solid waste management is waste collection, which can account for up to 70% of total system costs. At the same time, effective organization of the collection process can enhance user participation in separate waste collection and improve system acceptance. In the context of evolving smart city technologies, this study presents the design, development, and real-world testing of an integrated solution for the segregation and collection of municipal waste—referred to as the "PRESKO System". The system features a specialized hook-lift vehicle with an automated press-container and dedicated waste segregation containers, designed for single-operator use and full automation. The innovation emphasizes rapid container emptying and labor efficiency. Pilot implementation demonstrated the system's potential to reduce collection costs and increase separate collection rates. This paper includes a simulation of total waste management costs before and after the introduction of the PRESKO System in a municipality of 32,000 residents, focusing on service for multifamily housing areas.