EcoRewards | Google Extended IO 2024

In Projects by Bharat Katyal 16 August 2024

EcoRewards Technical Specifications

Serverless Gamified Recycling Application

Type Of Product: API
Built For: City Of Orlando
Tech Stack: Python
Cloud Services: ECS, Lambda, DynamoDB, Bedrock
Approximate Monthly Costs: x per 1000 images

How Google Gemini API Was Utilized

Here are some innovative solutions we developed

Extracting Barcodes from Images

Leveraging the Google Gemini API, we implemented a robust barcode extraction feature that allows users to easily scan and identify items for recycling or disposal.

Helping Users Understand Where to Recycle or Dispose of Their Waste

Using advanced image classification, the app provides users with accurate information on how to properly recycle or dispose of various waste items, enhancing their recycling habits.

Earn Points and Engage with the Reuse System

The app incorporates a points-based system where users can earn rewards for recycling activities, making sustainable practices fun and engaging through interactive challenges.

Integration with City Systems

We developed custom APIs and used middleware to integrate the app with existing city infrastructure and waste management systems, ensuring a smooth and efficient data flow.

Driving Innovation in Sustainability with Generative AI and Cloud Technologies: My Journey in Creating a Cutting-Edge Recycling App

As the world increasingly focuses on sustainability and environmental preservation, the intersection of technology and ecological responsibility has never been more critical. Leveraging the power of Generative AI, cloud technologies, and advanced computer vision, I embarked on a journey that not only highlighted my technical skills but also made a tangible impact on the environment. This journey led to the creation of an innovative recycling application, which earned recognition at the Google Extended I.O. Hackathon and aims to revolutionize recycling efforts in the city of Orlando.

The Genesis of an Idea: Fusing Passion with Purpose

Participating in the Google Extended I.O. Hackathon was a natural choice for me, driven by my love for hackathons and my desire to create something meaningful for my community. With the city of Orlando's ambition to enhance its recycling programs, I saw an opportunity to develop an application that would not only simplify recycling but also incentivize it in a way that resonates with the digital generation.

Harnessing Generative AI and Cloud Technologies for Environmental Impact

The hackathon challenge required the use of the Google Gemini API, and I quickly realized the potential of combining this with OpenAI’s capabilities. My application uses Computer Vision to scan the barcode of recyclable items, checking them against a database to determine the appropriate recycling instructions. If an item wasn’t found in the database, the system would employ Generative AI to analyze the object, extract relevant information, and enrich the database. This dual approach not only fulfilled the hackathon’s requirements but also created a robust and scalable solution for the city.

Additionally, the application included a unique feature that provided users with AI-generated craft ideas for reusing items, further promoting sustainability. By utilizing AWS and other cloud technologies, the app was designed to be both scalable and efficient, capable of handling large volumes of data and users, making it a perfect fit for a city-wide initiative.

Overcoming Challenges with Innovation

Developing this application wasn’t without its challenges. Integrating the Google Gemini API with OpenAI required a sophisticated retry strategy to ensure consistent and accurate data processing. By creating a system that could intelligently switch between APIs, I was able to maintain the application’s functionality while meeting the hackathon’s strict guidelines.

This innovative approach caught the attention of the judges, earning my team third place and recognition for creating a tool that could significantly contribute to Orlando’s goal of achieving zero waste. The application not only simplifies recycling but also engages the younger generation—particularly Gen Z—by gamifying the process and encouraging lifelong sustainable habits.

The Road Ahead: Collaboration and Open Source Development

Looking forward, my goal is to collaborate with the City of Orlando and the Google Developer Group to bring this project to life. By making the application open source, I hope to foster a community of developers and sustainability advocates who can enhance and expand the app’s capabilities. This project represents more than just an app; it’s an opportunity to contribute to a global movement toward sustainability and environmental responsibility.