Food Wastage Reduction Android Application

Abstract

The “Food Wastage Reduction Android Application” project aims to create a mobile app that helps reduce food waste by connecting users with surplus food to those in need. The app will allow restaurants, grocery stores, and individuals to list excess food items that would otherwise go to waste, making them available for pickup by others or for donation to charities. Users can browse available food items, claim them, and arrange for pickup or delivery. The app will also feature educational resources on food preservation, waste reduction tips, and tracking of personal waste reduction achievements. The primary goal is to minimize food waste, promote sustainability, and provide access to food for those in need.

Existing System

Currently, food waste is a significant issue, with large amounts of food being discarded by households, restaurants, and grocery stores daily. Existing platforms for reducing food waste are limited and often fragmented, with some focusing solely on food donations to charities, while others may only cater to specific communities or regions. These systems often lack user-friendly interfaces, making it challenging for both donors and recipients to connect efficiently. Additionally, there is a lack of awareness and tools available to individuals for tracking and reducing their food waste at a personal level.

Proposed System

The proposed system will be a comprehensive Android application that serves as a platform for reducing food waste by facilitating the redistribution of surplus food. The app will allow users to list excess food items, browse available food near them, and claim food for personal use or charity. Features such as real-time notifications, geolocation services, and scheduling tools will make it easier for users to manage food pickups and donations. The app will also include educational content on how to reduce food waste, preserve food longer, and make more sustainable food choices. By creating a centralized platform, the system will make it easier for individuals and businesses to contribute to reducing food waste and promoting food security.

Methodology

The development of the Food Wastage Reduction Android Application will follow the Agile methodology, ensuring continuous development, testing, and improvement. The project will be divided into sprints, each focusing on different features of the app, such as the food listing interface, notification system, and educational resources. The process will begin with gathering user requirements and designing the user interface, followed by backend development and integration with mapping and notification services. User feedback will be collected throughout the development cycle to ensure the app is user-friendly, efficient, and meets the needs of both donors and recipients.

Technologies Used

• Frontend: Android Studio with Kotlin for developing the Android application, providing a native, smooth, and responsive user experience.
• Backend: Node.js with Express.js for handling server-side operations, API integration, and managing the database of food listings, users, and transactions.
• Database: MongoDB for storing user profiles, food listings, transaction histories, and feedback securely, ensuring scalability and quick data retrieval.
• Geolocation Services: Google Maps API for enabling users to search for and view available food items based on their location, and to navigate to food pickup points.
• Notifications: Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM) for sending real-time alerts when new food listings are posted, claimed, or when pickup times are approaching.
• User Authentication: Firebase Authentication with OAuth 2.0 for secure user registration and login, allowing users to sign in with Google, Facebook, or email.
• Security: Encryption protocols (e.g., AES-256) to protect user data, along with secure communication channels (HTTPS) for data transmission between the app and server.
• Analytics: Google Analytics for tracking user engagement, food listing and claiming trends, and overall impact on food waste reduction.
• Version Control: Git for managing the codebase, enabling collaboration, and ensuring a streamlined development process to food wastage reduction

Additional Features (Optional)

• In-app Messaging: Allow users to communicate directly within the app to coordinate food pickups, discuss details, and provide feedback.
• Food Preservation Tips: A section in the app dedicated to providing users with tips and tricks on how to store and preserve food, thereby extending its shelf life.
• Waste Reduction Tracking: Enable users to track the amount of food they’ve saved from waste, with statistics and badges to encourage continued participation.
• Integration with Local Charities: Direct integration with local food banks and charities, allowing users to donate surplus food directly through the app.
• Recipe Suggestions: Offer recipe ideas based on leftover ingredients to encourage users to use up what they have, reducing waste.
• Multi-language Support: Ensure the app is accessible to a diverse user base by offering support in multiple languages.
• Donation Pickup Service: Integration with logistics services or volunteer networks to facilitate the pickup and delivery of donated food to charities and those in need.