Design of an IoT-Based Smart Waste Management System for the Detection of Hazardous Gases

Effective waste management has become a major safety concern, due to an increase in waste generation and the emission of hazardous gases into the environment. This research was conducted to design and develop a prototype of an IoT-based smart system to enhance waste management in real time. The model utilized multiple sensors—MQ4, MQ7, MQ135, and MQ-137—and an ESP32 microcontroller with a Wi-Fi module to detect and monitor the concentrations of ammonia, carbon (ii) oxide, carbon (iv) oxide, hydrogen sulfide, and methane, in the vicinity of dumpsites and landfills. Remarkably, the ESP32 microprocessor handled the raw data the sensor sent to it, and then made suitable decisions using the algorithms. Additionally, the system used the LCD display and buzzer alerts for immediate public safety, while the processed information is transmitted by the IoT cloud unit for real-time monitoring. The experimental results showed the system achieved 90% effectiveness in detecting high gas concentrations and triggering appropriate alerts, reliably delivering information via SMS and email. Specifically, this research’s findings revealed that an IoT-based hazardous gas detection system can be developed for effective waste management practice, thereby improving public safety, human welfare, and environmental sustainability.