## Inspiration

Food waste is a huge issue globally. Overall, we throw out about 1/3 of all of the food we produce ([FAO](https://www.fao.org/3/mb060e/mb060e00.pdf)), and that number is even higher at up to 40% in the U.S. ([Gunders](https://www.nrdc.org/sites/default/files/wasted-food-IP.pdf)). Young adults throw away an even higher proportion of their food than other age groups ([University of Illinois](https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/08/180822122832.htm)).

All of us have on the team have had problems with buying food and then forgetting about it. It's been especially bad in the last couple of years because the pandemic has pushed us to buy more food less often. The potatoes will be hiding behind some other things and by the time we remember them, they're almost potato plants.

## What it does

Foodpad is an application to help users track what food they have at home and when it needs to be used by. Users simply add their groceries and select how they're planning to store the item (fridge, pantry, freezer), and the app suggests an expiry date. The app even suggests the best storage method for the type of grocery. The items are sorted so that the soonest expiry date is at the top. As the items are used, the user removes them from the list. At any time, the user can access recipes for the ingredients.

## How we built it

We prototyped the application in Figma and built a proof-of-concept version with React JS. We use API calls to the opensourced TheMealDB, which has recipes for given ingredients.

## Challenges we ran into

Only one of us had ever used JavaScript before, so it was tough to figure out how to use that, especially to get it to look nice. None of us had ever used Figma either, and it was tricky at first, but it's a really lovely tool and we'll definitely use it again in the future!

## Accomplishments that we're proud of

* We think it's a really cool idea that would be helpful in our own lives and would also be useful for other people.
* We're all more hardware/backend coders, so we're really proud of the design work that went into this and just pushing ourselves outside of our comfort zones.

## What we learned

* how to prioritize tasks in a project over a very short timeframe for an MVP
* how to code in JS and use React
* how to design an application to look nice
* how to use Figma

## What's next for foodPad

* release it!
* make the application's UI match the design more closely
* expanding the available food options
* giving users the option of multiple recipes for an ingredient
* selecting recipes that use many of the ingredients on the food list
* send push notifications to the user if the product is going to expire in the next day
* if a certain food keeps spoiling, suggest to the user that they should buy less of an item
## Inspiration

We wanted to reduce global carbon footprint and pollution by optimizing waste management. 2019 was an incredible year for all environmental activities. We were inspired by the acts of 17-year old Greta Thunberg and how those acts created huge ripple effects across the world. With this passion for a greener world, synchronized with our technical knowledge, we created Recycle.space.

## What it does

Using modern tech, we provide users with an easy way to identify where to sort and dispose of their waste items simply by holding it up to a camera. This application will be especially useful when permanent fixtures are erect in malls, markets, and large public locations.

## How we built it

Using a flask-based backend to connect to Google Vision API, we captured images and categorized which waste categories the item belongs to. This was visualized using Reactstrap.

## Challenges I ran into

* Deployment
* Categorization of food items using Google API
* Setting up Dev. Environment for a brand new laptop
* Selecting appropriate backend framework
* Parsing image files using React
* UI designing using Reactstrap

## Accomplishments that I'm proud of

* WE MADE IT!
We are thrilled to create such an incredible app that would make people's lives easier while helping improve the global environment.

## What I learned

* UI is difficult
* Picking a good tech stack is important
* Good version control practices is crucial

## What's next for Recycle.space

Deploying a scalable and finalized version of the product to the cloud and working with local companies to deliver this product to public places such as malls.
## Inspiration

Treehacks's 'Most Impactful Hack' and theme of sustainability encouraged us to think about one of the **Sustainable Developmental Goals** that is **Zero Hunger** and work on solving the global issue. As it is not possible to eradicate completely so we analyzed to implement in our homes; the change begins with our refrigerator. Certain factors such as Growing Concern about Food Waste, Advancements in Technology, Consumer Demand, Social Responsibility, Business Opportunities led us to come to the idea of **FridgeSpace**.

## What it does

Our project addresses the challenge by tackling the global problem of food waste and by empowering individuals to take control of their food expiration dates. Our solution provides a simple and user-friendly platform that allows users to easily track their food inventory and receive alerts before it expires. With this technology, users can plan their meals better, reduce unnecessary purchases, and ultimately reduce food waste.

## How we built it

We designed web pages and created prototypes using Figma tools and framed the UI with it. We used front-end languages like HTML, CSS, Javascript to develop the website.
The system required accurate and up-to-date data on food items and their expiration dates. We collected data from various sources.

## Challenges we ran into

It was challenging to maintain the accuracy in the details of the food items and their expiration date as new products are introduced regularly in the market.
We also struggled in the preparing the recipe page in the website.

## Accomplishments that we're proud of

We are proud of our idea having **environmental & social impact \*\* and create awareness among the public and encourage them to adopt sustainable habits.
The software also help users plan their meals better, ensuring that they consume fresh and healthy food, reducing the likelihood of illnesses and improving \*\*overall nutrition**.
We liked the **efficiency \*\*of our website which helps users to save time and money by reducing unnecessary grocery purchases and ensuring that they use their food items before they expire.
Providing a \*\*user-friendly platform** that can help users save money, time, and reduce food waste can lead to increased user satisfaction and loyalty.

## What we learned

The importance of **data accuracy** and value of **user-centered design** along with user adoption to gain the market skills. The role of technology in creating a more sustainable future.

## What's next for FridgeSpace

Implementing a notification tab and new custom recipes. Secondly, gaining marketing and traction with a better UI.
"Join us in making a positive impact on our environment and our community by taking a step towards a more sustainable future."