Automated Sorting and Shredding System using Arduino Microcontrollers

The increasing demand for paper products, despite the push for digitalization, has led to significant environmental concerns, particularly in office settings where paper waste is prevalent. Manual sorting of paper waste is time-consuming, inefficient, and prone to errors, leading to substantial waste of reusable resources. This study develops an Automated Paper Sorter and Shredder to address these issues by efficiently sorting office paper based on its print status (printed on both sides, one side, or none) and shredding fully used papers to reduce waste volume. The machine integrates a smart paper feeder, color sensors for print detection, and a sorting mechanism with controlled gates and servo motors. Testing demonstrated a high detection accuracy of 96-97%, confirming the reliability of the system. Statistical analysis using SPSS software provided a confidence interval for detection errors, indicating consistent performance. The study concludes that the Automated Paper Sorter and Shredder can significantly enhance office paper recycling efforts, promote sustainable practices, and reduce the environmental impact of paper waste. Future improvements are recommended to expand the machine's capabilities and further optimize its performance.