ASK MURF
Reducing the guesswork around local recycling.
ROLE
UX Design
TOOLS
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llustrator
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Photoshop
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InVision
WHAT I DESIGNED
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Research
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Interaction Design
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Visual Design
THE CHALLENGE
People are enthusiastic about recycling, but are often confused about how to do it correctly, which can result in recycling contamination. The goal of Ask MURF was to reduce the guesswork around what is and is not recyclable and encourage better recycling practices.
RESEARCH
I spoke with a Recycling Supervisor and observed the Material Recovery Facility (MRF) in my hometown to better understand how recycling is processed. I then interviewed people with different recycling habits to understand their thought process, pain points, and challenges around recycling.
RESEARCH INSIGHTS
• What is recyclable changes from city to city.
• Not all recyclables are accepted through curbside recycling.
• The MRF determines what recyclables can be processed.
An inspiration board and competitive analysis helped explore existing recycling products and generate interface ideas.
THE DESIGN DIRECTION
The research pointed to a need for an easier way to distinguish recyclable from non-recyclable items. I explored using technology to provide recycling information and updates at users’ fingertips.
An inspiration board and competitive analysis helped explore existing recycling products and generate interface ideas.
THE SOLUTION
Ask MURF was designed as a mobile tool that helps people determine how to handle an item based on local recycling guidelines.
• Scan a product barcode to identify how it should be handled.
• Search for an item when a barcode is not available.
• Find drop-off locations for items that require an alternative disposal method.
The concept also supported continuous education through recycling tips and articles.
WHY ASK MURF?
Ask MURF focused on local recycling guidelines—the part of recycling that often causes the most confusion. The name comes from Material Recovery Facility (MRF), pronounced “MURF.”
Ask MURF explored how local recycling information could be made easier to access and understand through a mobile experience.