Pilah.in: UNU Jogja Student Innovation Encouraging People to Think Before Throwing Waste

Yogyakarta, Indonesia – Hendrik Pradiska and M. Rozan Lathif, students from the Electrical Engineering Study Program at Nahdlatul Ulama University (UNU) Yogyakarta, have demonstrated their commitment to environmental issues through an innovative creation called Pilah.in V.1.0. This interactive device is designed to encourage people to sort their waste before disposal, carrying the slogan “Think Before Throwing.”

The idea stemmed from concern over Indonesia’s growing waste problem. According to data from the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK), Indonesia generates more than 18 million tons of waste each year. The problem, however, is not merely due to limited waste management facilities, but also the low public awareness of sorting waste from home.

“Many people throw away their trash without considering its long-term impact. We want to make waste sorting part of people’s daily habits,” said Hendrik.

Pilah.in combines technology with education. The system is based on ESP32 and Nextion LCD, equipped with an ultrasonic sensor to detect hand movement. The LCD screen displays waste categories (organic/inorganic), allowing users to select the appropriate type. A servo mechanism then automatically opens the corresponding waste bin.

In addition to simplifying the sorting process, Pilah.in offers several advantages: real-time waste capacity monitoring, interactive educational features that build sorting habits, and an innovative design that attracts users of all ages.

Hendrik hopes the device can be implemented in public facilities such as schools, offices, and shopping centers.

“Our goal is simple — to help people think before they throw their trash,” he said.

The team’s supervisor, Bledug Kusuma Prasaja, praised the students’ innovation, noting that the project is both creative and socially impactful.

“Conceptually, Pilah.in is excellent. It’s not only an inventive idea but also one with tangible benefits for society,” he remarked.

Bledug added that the prototype shows readiness for real-world application.

“Technically, Pilah.in is implementable and has the potential for further development. It’s a remarkable innovation that addresses waste management challenges through a practical and educational technological approach,” he explained.

This innovation stands as not only an academic achievement but also a meaningful contribution from UNU Jogja students toward environmental awareness, aligning with the university’s mission to nurture a generation that is both competitive and committed to sustainability. [Latifah]