Ngô Hoàng Thịnh (left) from Nha Trang University created a model waste collecting boat, powered by solar energy. — VNA/VNS Photo

Thịnh and his colleagues have been researched the idea since their third year of university.

Before working on the project, Thịnh noticed that in Việt Nam there were few projects about waste collecting boats.

“Every feature of the project we have is completely different from existing products and models: using remote control, the boat and engine are powered by solar energy, the hull is made of steel, and at low cost,” Thịnh said.

Through the project, he wishes to make a small contribution to changing awareness and actions about keeping the living environment clean, reducing plastic waste, especially in coastal residential areas where people live mainly by fishing.

"At the same time, I want to inspire young people to boldly research and implement new ideas, thereby creating many useful inventions for the community," Thịnh added.

The test model of the project has a maximum length of 1.2 metre, with a maximum capacity of ten kilogram of waste. 

The boat is designed with two parallel hulls. This structure has a space in between, which increases the ship's garbage collection and storage capacity.

At the same time, it helps to increase the flat surface area for the integration of solar panel systems, reduces water resistance, increases efficiency and saves energy.

According to Thịnh, the use of double-hulled garbage collectors will help reduce waste drifting on rivers and lakes, and protect the living environment of creatures.

From the idea to the completion of the model, it took him about a year.

“Having an idea, having a plan, we started working even though there were times when we were stuck in class and exam schedules. Thanks to our passion for scientific research, we all overcame these difficulties,” Thịnh said.

The waste collecting boat running on solar power in action. — VNA/VNS Photo

The ship moves on the water and has a conveyor system placed between the two hulls to pick up trash and bring garbage from the water to the deck.

Garbage is collected in a container on the ship. After the container is full, the ship will return to shore to dispose of the garbage and clean the container for reuse.

The entire process of garbage collection is controlled remotely, making it safe and convenient for cleaning workers on rivers, lakes and ponds.

Dr. Huỳnh Văn Vũ, dean of the Department of Traffic Engineering of the university, said the project is a new solution to solve the problem of environmental pollution in rivers and lakes.

With a two-hull design, the boat is capable of carrying more waste, ensuring stability as well as increasing the ability to collect garbage.

The boat can operate in polluted areas and for long periods of time without refuelling. This is a great advantage in minimising the impact on the environment. — VNS