Desenvolvimento de um protótipo de sistema de gestão de resíduos sólidos urbanos baseado em internet of things (IoT) e a sua avaliação, caso de estudo: Distrito Municipal de KaMpfumo - Maputo

Abstract

This study aimed to develop and evaluate a prototype of an Internet of Things (IoT)-based urban solid waste management system applied to the KaMpfumo Municipal District, in the city of Maputo, Mozambique. The central problem addressed concerns the operational limitations of traditional waste collection systems, which hinder the adoption of more efficient and sustainable waste management practices in rapidly growing urban environments. The relevance of the topic arises from accelerated urbanisation processes and the socio‑environmental challenges associated with inadequate waste disposal, which affect urban organisation and overall quality of life. In this context, the research adopts a technological and applied approach, focusing on the development of an IoT‑based solution to support waste monitoring and collection optimisation. The adopted methodology included a literature review on urban solid waste management and IoT technologies, as well as the design and implementation of a functional prototype integrating level‑monitoring sensors, communication modules and a centralised web platform for data processing and visualisation. Experimental tests were conducted to assess the technical performance and feasibility of the proposed solution. The results indicated that the developed system has the potential to improve operational efficiency in waste collection processes, optimise the use of available resources and reduce associated operational costs. Furthermore, the solution supports a more organised and data‑driven approach to urban waste management, contributing indirectly to improved urban sanitation and environmental sustainability. It is concluded that the proposed system is technically viable and presents potential for replication in other urban contexts with similar characteristics, particularly in cities of developing countries, provided that local conditions and implementation constraints are duly considered. Keywords: urban solid waste management; Internet of Things (IoT); intelligent systems; waste monitoring; operational efficiency