ClearBin is a smart platform that streamlines waste disposal, turning a tedious chore into a seamless, rewarding experience. By combining intelligent sorting, real-time guidance, and app connectivity, it simplifies recycling, reduces contamination, and helps users build sustainable habits.

Using object recognition, ClearBin identifies materials, directs them to the right bin, and flags misplaced items while also offering progress tracking, eco-friendly tips, and timely reminders. Designed for quick, intuitive, and hands-free use, it integrates effortlessly into daily life, making waste management accessible for everyone.

The ClearBin platform was strategically designed for both wearable and mobile technology, acknowledging the hands-on nature of waste disposal. A multi-platform approach was chosen to maximize accessibility, allowing users to engage with the system on devices they already own. While the concept extends to an on-bin interface, launching on existing platforms was identified as the most effective strategy for initial user adoption.

Integrating wearable technology, such as smartwatches, was a key decision to enable a truly hands-free experience. This allows users to perform quick actions like checking bin fullness or remotely compacting trash without the friction of unlocking a phone and navigating to an app. While the wearable interface offers immediate, high-priority functions, the mobile app provides deeper engagement. It serves as a comprehensive educational hub where users can research material disposal guidelines and develop a more nuanced understanding of recycling.

The information architecture (IA) was built on a foundation of real user touchpoints and needs. To deeply understand these pain points, I leveraged AI to generate a series of detailed user scenarios. This process focused on identifying common points of friction during waste disposal, such as carrying heavy or bulky items over long distances, or navigating a driveway. By simulating these real-world challenges, I was able to meticulously calculate what the IA should be, centering the structure on providing a clear and stress-free solution for the user.

My process was rooted in the goal of creating a platform that empowers users to grow with their waste management habits. The IA is centered around the idea of enabling and helping the user develop better habits over time. Key features, such as scheduling trash pickup, were streamlined to be accessible in a single tap, anticipating that users might be in the middle of a task or holding a heavy bag. By keeping the navigation depth to a maximum of five layers, I ensured that critical content remains easily accessible, even in high-pressure situations.

The wireframe phase translated the information architecture into a tangible visual and organizational structure. I adopted a "need-to-know" philosophy, prioritizing the most critical user actions. Core functions like item scanning are featured prominently on the home screen, minimizing the number of taps required to complete a task.

Similarly, features like scheduling and requesting assistance are structured to be short and simple. The goal was to keep interactions light and uncomplicated, ensuring users can achieve their goals stress-free. The wearable interface serves as a functional extension of the main app, providing a shortcut for key waste management needs directly on the user's wrist.

The platform's core objective is to deliver critical, actionable information to users at every stage, from item disposal to collection day. It accomplishes this by providing real-time feedback and guidance on proper sorting, offering proactive reminders for upcoming pickups, and giving users a clear view of their bin's status. This holistic approach ensures users are actively guided through the entire waste disposal process.

The wearable technology component acts as a direct and immediate extension of the mobile app, providing at-a-glance insights into bin fullness, next pickup schedules, and other key alerts. This immediate feedback loop not only simplifies disposal but also actively reinforces positive recycling habits. By putting this information on the user's wrist, we minimize friction and ensure they can make the right decision without breaking their workflow.

The ClearBin identity uses a high-visibility orange, paired with white and black, to stand out in a landscape dominated by greens and blues typical of recycling and waste solutions. Choosing a bold, contrasting color helps the brand remain memorable and easily recognizable, signaling a fresh approach to waste management.

Additionally, the palette was selected with accessibility in mind—ensuring strong contrast for readability and usability, particularly for older users or those with visual impairments, while maintaining a clean and approachable aesthetic.