WAYST RECYCLING: Blockchain-Powered Recycling Solution
WAYST LLC is developing a blockchain-powered decentralised mobile application and administrative dashboard that makes recycling accessible to both crypto and non-crypto users. The PREZENTI Scale grant (May 2025) provides transparent waste collection tracking, transactions, and payment systems built on the Celo network. This case study examines the implementation, results, challenges, and future plans for this innovative recycling solution that bridges traditional waste management with blockchain technology.
Implementation and Results
Mobile Application
User-friendly interface for non-crypto users with seamless recycling activity tracking, integrated payment system, and real-time waste collection updates.
Admin Dashboard
Comprehensive waste collection monitoring, transaction tracking and analytics, payment processing management, and user activity oversight.
Blockchain Integration
Built on Celo network for transparency with smart contract-based transactions, immutable waste tracking records, and decentralized payment processing.
Quantitative Metrics
200+
Blockchain Transactions
Completed during beta phase with 95% success rate on Celo network
50+
Beta Users
80% user retention rate with 25+ active daily users at peak testing
$200+
cUSD Rewards
Distributed to users during the testing phase
Ecosystem Integration
The platform has successfully integrated with the Celo blockchain network and is compatible with Minipay, MetaMask, and Valora wallets. The API is ready for third-party integration, and the team is exploring partnerships with existing recycling platforms like wasset.io, detrash.io, and plastiks.com. Notable collaborations include a Celo Nigeria Session, CELO Africa DAO, and discussions with Lagos Waste Management Authority.
Challenges
Key Challenges
  • Smart contract optimization took 3 weeks longer than planned
  • User onboarding flow required 2 major redesigns to accommodate non-crypto natives
  • Integration with payment systems proved more complex than anticipated
Trade-offs Made
  • Simplified initial feature set to focus on core functionality
  • Chose Celo over Ethereum for lower transaction fees
  • Initially prioritized web platform over mobile app
  • Limited beta to 50 users to ensure quality experience
Lessons Learned
"Finally, a recycling app that doesn't require crypto knowledge" - Beta user
The team identified several improvements for future development:
  • Start user testing earlier in the development process
  • Implement more comprehensive error handling from the start
  • Focus on building stronger community engagement before beta launch
  • Create more detailed technical documentation upfront
Future Roadmap
1
Near-Term (0-6 months)
Launch public version with 500+ user capacity, implement reward system for active recyclers, and provide multi-regional support.
2
Mid-Term (6-12 months)
Establish physical waste recycling facility, expand to 3+ Nigerian cities, and scale infrastructure to handle 1000+ active users.
3
Long-Term (12+ months)
Develop complete circularity platform tracking waste-to-product journey, create recycling marketplace, and implement supply chain transparency.
Funding and Partnership Opportunities
WAYST is seeking $200-500K pre-seed funding for waste/end-to-end recycling facility setup. The team is applying for additional blockchain development grants and exploring partnerships with major waste management companies, environmental NGOs, manufacturers, and government waste management initiatives. Expansion to other West African countries is also being considered.
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