Before beginning our research as a team, we first had to identify our problem. This didn’t take too long at all, as we all need what the purpose of our app was to be. But by starting with the problem it makes us easy to relate back to. Myself and Cathain were mainly responsible for conducting research, while Darach and Ryan made a few sketches and made a start on the prototype.

Problem: The levels of rubbish/waste have reached record highs in NI; We must take appropriate action to motivate and make it easier for people to report waste and reduce pollution levels across the country.

Backing up the problem:

Our first piece of research was to be able to back up our claim, by finding articles and content which speak of the high levels of waste in the country. What we found was:

• "Littering and dog fouling have increased during the pandemic", according to an annual survey by an anti-litter charity.
• "Northern Ireland marine litter leaves levels worst on record" - BBC News
• On average, 762 items of litter were found per 100 metres of beach surveyed - up from 375 items in 2020.
• In total, 36,587 items of litter were found on N.I twelve surveys beaches throughout the year.
• Belfast City Council are to look at setting up a dedicated cleaning task force following growing concerns about littering in the city centre as well as missed collections and fly tipping. (HENSE WHY WE ARE CREATING THIS APP)
• To report a cleaning issue you have to call 028 9027 0230 OR you can submit an anonymous report, but if you want them to contact you, you'll need to provide your contact details.

Solution to the problem:

To tackle this problem, we will design an app that will allow the user to report to their local council about waste/litter that is adding to the increased levels of waste in their area so that it can be collected and disposed of properly. This, in turn, will allow people to quickly and accurately report waste by inputting their location and allowing them to take a photograph via the app without giving personal details and contacting their city council via phone. The app has a built-in map that lets users see pinned locations for waste collection and the vans currently in transit to collect the waste. Doing this will help tackle the increased levels of litter which is at an all-time high after the Covid pandemic.

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