BY: CHARLES NIKKO LIMON

To ensure the cleanliness of Burnham Park, Gina’s group volunteers to sweep the area.

With the influx of tourists, the amount of trash also increases.

When trash bins overflow, their contents sometimes end up scattered around.

According to Gina, a volunteer, “Visitors know the bins are full, but they don’t look for another one. Yes, the trash gets scattered, so others have to look for another bin.”

This is why Gina believes having trash bins with covers would be better.

“To prevent overflowing, bins should have covers, so people would know they’re full and avoid adding more trash,” Gina added.

Her wish is fulfilled with the invention of a trash bin called “Baraki.”

The bin automatically closes when it reaches full capacity.

According to Kyle Russel Lucero, Fabricator – Smart Garbage Bin “Baraki,” “This was our college research project. We found that during peak seasons, waste overflow in parks was a major problem, so we developed this solution.”

The bin uses a sensor to detect the amount of trash and closes automatically when full.

The team focused on developing the software that operates the bin, which is powered by solar panels.

It can hold up to 435 liters of trash and can also be used for deeper studies on public waste disposal habits.

“We monitor its fullness level for possible collection,” Lucero mentioned.

Their initial studies show that trash disposal peaks at 7 in the morning and 5 in the afternoon.

Only residual waste like plastic wrappers, paper, and similar materials can be discarded in the bin.

The Baraki is a significant aid in maintaining cleanliness in public spaces.

The General Services Office (GSO) acknowledges challenges in implementing this innovation but remains optimistic about potential solutions.

“The idea is good and can be improved further for the city’s use,” said Eugene Buyucan, City General Services Officer.

The Baraki will undergo further development to enhance its capacity and efficiency.