Technology is changing how we communicate, how we work, and how we learn. But did you know that technology and the “Internet of Things” (IoT) are also affecting our waste management and how we recycle?
There is no doubt that we are generating a lot of trash. Some estimates say that the US is responsible for 230 million tons of trash a year. That means that each person, each day is creating 4.6 pounds of waste!
But technology companies and progressive equipment manufacturers are looking for ways to reduce the 
costs and impact of the waste. Through technology that talks to each other, these advancements are saving human work and increasing efficiency. This is where the Internet of Things, and more specifically, machine-to-machine (M2M) communication, comes in.
What is the Internet of Things?
The Internet of Things essentially describes the modern internet – the whole spectrum of technologies that focus on connecting everyday items. Going beyond smartphones, computers, laptops and connecting our devices to other items – everything from home automation to our cars, to water bottles and commercial trash cans. For the waste management and recycling industry, machine-to-machine is very common right now. M2M is a broad label and a subset of the IoT that describes how wireless devices can capture data, exchange information, and perform actions without human assistance.
Wireless Trash & Recycling Monitoring
One way that Harmony Enterprises, Inc. uses M2M technology is in our SmartPack Trash Compactors and 
balers. When the waste and recycling equipment are equipped with our Insite wireless notification system, it connects to a computer or smartphone in real-time. The wireless notification system automatically alerts the facility’s Waste Manager when the trash bin or baler is approaching full so that trash related tasks can be completed on demand. In cases where the frequency of waste generation is variable or slower, the wireless monitoring will save time, eliminate unnecessary work, and ultimately, save labor costs! This cutting edge wireless monitoring system can be found in recycling and waste management equipment across the globe, including the Atlanta International Airport, and the French Open.
Harmony Enterprises, Inc. can offer solutions to all of your recycling and waste management needs: trash compactors and balers with Insite wireless monitoring, full product destruction equipment, and more. We also provide industry leading customer service and warranty options as part of a total global solutions approach. We care about the environment and are always working toward making the earth a greener, more sustainable place for generations to come. If you are interested in learning more about our waste management and recycling products, please contact us here or call us at (507) 886-6666.
