University University trial with camera trash can monitor spam

smile! You are standing in front of a trash can with a camera. This bin can record all the things you throw away. Some people will evaluate whether you are wasting and environmental protection. If you violate some of the environmental regulations, people who throw trash will be punished.

Newcastle University in the United Kingdom invented a camera-equipped trash can and garbage disposal system to ensure that families can comply with the prescribed waste disposal methods.

This type of garbage bin, which is placed in the kitchen and has a camera, can automatically record the garbage that each household throws away.

The trash can automatically send the image to a public website. The management agency monitors the information of the garbage and punishes those who violate the rules. People can see the rubbish that every family discards, and they can also evaluate the habits of “circulation” of their neighbors.

The Newcastle University researchers who initiated the project believe that the new trash can encourage those who refuse to "recycle" or waste food to change their habits.

There are also critics who say that monitoring the behaviour of residents hinders personal privacy; and that it is mandatory to let people recycle something that is nosy. A study by the University of Newcastle project team also showed that the experiment itself caused people's privacy and ethical concerns.

This bin has been tested in the Newcastle University student dormitory kitchen. A camera and sensor are installed in the lid of the trash can. When someone lifts the bin lid and throws trash, it will take a picture.

These photos will be posted on Facebook, a social networking site. Other students will participate in discussions and check out what their neighbors have thrown away. Is it eco-friendly?

Three universities in the United Kingdom and Germany will also participate in the trial later this year. The University of Newcastle expressed that it is hoped that the school staff can also install this kind of special trash can.

Professor Patrick Oliver, the person in charge of the trial, said, "They are very interested in this kind of garbage collection system."

Anja Tim, a researcher, said that rubbish will have a major impact on the environment. Taking pictures of people's discarded rubbish and uploading it to the Internet is a platform for people to reflect on their behavior and protect the environment.