EcoCycle

Inspiration

We were inspired by the everyday confusion around waste disposal, especially when it comes to interpreting resin codes, local recycling rules, or knowing whether something is compostable or trash. We wanted to create a tool that uses technology to make these decisions easier, in real-time, and right at your fingertips. That’s how EcoCycle was born.

What It Does

EcoCycle is an augmented reality mobile app that helps users make sustainable choices before throwing something away. By scanning an item with your phone, the app identifies what it is, then overlays AR-based guidance to suggest whether to recycle, compost, trash, or even reuse it creatively. It simplifies sustainability with real-time, actionable feedback.

How We Built It

We built EcoCycle using SwiftUI and Xcode. We used CreateML to create the object recognition models and ARKit to create the AR elements. The result is a lightweight, responsive mobile experience that empowers users to make eco-conscious choices effortlessly.

Challenges We Ran Into

• Tuning the object detection model for accuracy with real-world, used items
  
• Managing lighting and background noise in AR overlays
  
• Designing an interface that’s both informative and non-intrusive
  
• Time constraints when integrating multiple Apple frameworks in one app

Accomplishments That We're Proud Of

• Built a working AR app that provides real-time disposal guidance
  
• Successfully integrated object detection and AR overlay in a short time
  
• Created a clean, intuitive user interface
  
• Delivered a polished pitch that clearly communicated both the technical and environmental impact

What We Learned

• How to bridge machine learning and augmented reality in iOS development
  
• The nuances of local vs. global recycling guidelines
  
• How to deliver a clear, compelling presentation for a technical audience
  
• The power of user-friendly design in driving sustainable behavior

What's Next for EcoCycle

• Expanding the object database for more accurate recognition
  
• Integrating APIs for local recycling rules by region
  
• Adding a community feature to share upcycling ideas
  
• Supporting more languages to expand global accessibility
  
• Launching on the App Store to make EcoCycle available to everyone

Built With

• arkit
• coreml
• createml
• pytorch
• swift
• swiftui
• xcode