Smart Waste Manager: YOLO-driven Medical Waste Detection and Classification System

In the realm of healthcare waste management, the improper handling of medical waste poses significant threats to public health and the environment. The reliance on manual sorting procedures not only proves ineffective but also introduces risks for waste handlers and garbage collectors. To address these challenges and improve safety, efficiency, and ecological sustainability, this study proposes an innovative solution. We introduce a dedicated software system leveraging the YOLO (You Only Look Once) algorithm for precise detection and classification of medical waste items. The envisioned system, while foregoing specific accuracy metrics, promises potential cost savings and plays a pivotal role in mitigating the hazards associated with manual sorting. This research advances a software solution for efficient medical waste detection and classification, bridging gaps in existing literature regarding accuracy issues, limited datasets, and the need for real-time detection capabilities, contributing to a safer and more sustainable waste management landscape.