Frequently Asked Questions

Nothing. eSmart Bin is free and is supported by advertising.

eSmart Bin is for adults aged 18 or over (or older where the law where you live sets a higher age). You confirm this when you create your account, and we close accounts that belong to anyone under 18.

Yes. Your account keeps your scan allowances, credits, statistics and streaks in one place and lets you use the app across devices.

We enable countries in stages, once we are satisfied the app meets their requirements. If it isn't available where you live yet, it may be soon.

Open the scanner and photograph the item, or type what it is. You'll get a suggested category and bin.

eSmart Bin can classify a wide range of everyday items including plastics (all types), paper products, cardboard, glass, metals, organic waste, textiles and more. Simply capture a photo or describe the item, and we'll suggest where it goes. For batteries, electronics, chemicals and other hazardous items, always follow your local authority's guidance instead of relying on the app.

Absolutely! eSmart Bin supports both photo capture and text descriptions. Simply describe your waste item in natural language (e.g., 'plastic water bottle' or 'cardboard pizza box'), and our AI will provide classification and disposal suggestions. This is perfect for when taking a photo isn't convenient.

No. Camera access is only needed for photo scanning — if you'd rather not grant it, typed descriptions work just as well.

Classification is highly accurate for common household items, and the system continuously improves with user feedback. That said, results are automatically generated suggestions that can be wrong — always double-check anything you're unsure about, and remember that your local waste authority's rules take priority over anything the app suggests.

No. Results are automatically generated suggestions and can be wrong. Always check the item's label and your local waste authority's instructions — local rules always take priority over anything the app suggests.

Because waste rules genuinely differ between countries, cities, buildings and even individual collection services. The same bottle can belong in different bins in two neighbouring towns.

Report it directly in the app — corrections help us improve the system.

No. Never rely on eSmart Bin for batteries, electronics, chemicals, paints, fuel, aerosols, medicines, sharps, clinical waste or anything else that needs regulated or professional handling. Contact your local authority or a licensed handler, and never open, puncture, heat or experiment with an unknown or dangerous item.

Scans are your classification allowance. You can top up with credits — for example by choosing to watch a rewarded advertisement, or through a participating organisation's invitation. Credits are personal, have no cash value and can expire. Streaks and statistics simply track your sorting activity to keep you motivated.

Yes. Your eSmart Bin profile tracks the items you sort, your Est. CO₂e avoided and your day streak, and you earn achievement badges as you go. Keep in mind that these figures are motivational estimates, not audited environmental claims.

No. eSmart Bin is currently free and ad-supported.

The app is for personal, non-commercial use. Organisations that want to use or rely on it operationally need our written permission first — contact support@esmartbin.com.