Smart Waste Management in Nitra

Challenge:

The city of Nitra, Slovakia, struggled with outdated waste management systems that led to inefficient collections, high operational costs, excessive fuel consumption, and increased environmental impact. The need for a more efficient, sustainable waste collection system became evident as the city aimed to reduce its carbon footprint and optimise its urban services.

Approach:

In collaboration with Sensoneo, a leading Slovak startup, Nitra deployed Europe’s largest smart waste management system. Initially, Sensoneo installed 130 ultrasonic Smart Sensors in Nitra to monitor waste fill levels in semi-underground bins. These sensors ensure full functionality and security. The data is processed in the Smart Waste Management System (WSM), which provides waste level overview, semi-automated collection route planning, and various statistics, reports, and predictions. After verifying the benefits, NKS (Nitra Waste Management Services) expanded the project, adding Smart Sensors to glass containers. Now, 180 sensors monitor semi-underground bins, and 302 sensors monitor glass containers. The data network includes Sigfox, LoRaWAN, and GSM. Smart Analytics processes the data, allowing the city to understand waste production details, including waste types, average levels, and collection route efficiency. This enables better planning of bin capacity, ratio, and location based on real data. The system also features advanced analytics that allow city authorities to visualise waste generation patterns and adapt services, accordingly, ensuring a more responsive and efficient waste management strategy.

Outcomes:

The deployment of Sensoneo’s smart waste solution in Nitra has resulted in several positive outcomes. It has reduced waste collection costs by 30% and lowered fuel consumption, which contributed to a 60% reduction in the city’s overall environmental impact. The number of waste collection vehicles on the road has also decreased, leading to less traffic congestion and reduced emissions. Additionally, resource allocation has improved, minimising labour and operational expenses. Residents and businesses now benefit from enhanced service quality, with more reliable and timely waste collections.

Data Sources:

Data sources include IoT sensors installed in over 9,000 waste bins, which measure both fill levels and environmental conditions. These sensors send real-time data to the Sensoneo platform, where artificial intelligence processes the information to optimise waste collection routes and schedules. 

Additional Information:

• https://www.mzv.sk/en/web/en/slovakia/blog/slovak-startup-brings-the-biggest-smart-waste-installation-to-europe
• https://sensoneo.com/reference/nitra/

Point of Contact:

• infosensoneo [dot] com (info[at]sensoneo[dot]com)