Butuan City, Caraga Region — Students from Caraga State University in Butuan City have successfully launched "ScrapCycle," a mobile application that secured the champion title in the Caraga region and emerged as a national finalist in the 7th Philippine Startup Challenge in 2022.
The Philippine Startup Challenge, an annual accolade, aims to inspire higher education students to create innovative information, communication, and technology (ICT) products and services. ScrapCycle's success in the challenge not only highlights its potential as a viable business venture but also underscores its ability to address crucial social problems.
This innovative app tackles solid waste management issues in the region by enabling Butuan City residents to trade their recyclables for cash.
Transforming Trash into Cash
ScrapCycle is a pioneering online junk shop designed to streamline solid waste management initiatives. By allowing Butuan City residents to trade recyclables for cash, the app contributes to addressing solid waste management challenges in the region.
Convenient Options for Sellers
The ScrapCycle mobile app, available to Android users via the Google Play Store, has garnered over 1,000 downloads, positive online reviews, and an impressive 5.0 rating. Its intuitive interface and commitment to sustainability establish it as a standout waste management solution in Butuan City.
With no minimum load requirements, ScrapCycle's free pick-up and collection service accepts a diverse range of recyclables, including plastics, glass, metals, paper, cardboard, empty polyethylene terephthalate and glass bottles, and electronic waste. Sellers have the option to receive payment through the GCash facility or in real-time cash during the collection process.
Three Easy Steps to Cash for Trash
Step 1: Segregate and Clean Your Recyclables
- Collect recyclables in one place.
- Remove non-recyclable items.
- Sort materials by type (glass, plastic, metals, batteries, and e-waste).
- Clean recyclables by wiping off residues and rinsing containers.
Step 2: Book Waste Collection Schedule
- Download ScrapCycle from the Google Play Store.
- Open the app and select "Book New."
- Choose a preferred collection day.
- Fill in necessary information and confirm location details.
Step 3: Get Paid on Collection Day
- Have prepared recyclables ready for pickup on the scheduled day.
- ScrapCycle collectors will weigh and verify recyclables.
- Receive payment instantly through GCash or real-time cash.
ScrapCycle not only contributes to environmental sustainability but also showcases the potential of young innovators in addressing real-world challenges through technology.
