MOBA drives the digital transformation of urban waste

Jan 21, 2026

3 minute read

The intelligent revolution in urban waste management

Europe is moving towards a circular economy where both municipalities and citizens play a crucial role. Achieving the EU target of 60% recycling by 2030 requires smart infrastructure, efficient processes and an engaged population. So, what does this mean in practice?

Municipal obligations

Local authorities must introduce separate waste collections – especially for organic waste – and provide citizens with transparent information about the real cost of the service, which will be reflected in a new waste fee.

Implementation challenges

Many municipalities are struggling to adapt to new regulations due to the cost of updating infrastructure, changing operational routines and encouraging new citizen habits – often resulting in confusion and resistance.

The role of citizens

As a key link in the chain, citizens need a simple and intuitive system, reliable infrastructure and clear communication that helps them understand both their role and the impact of their contribution.

When everything is connected, cities run more smoothly

In a distributed system where every container and vehicle becomes a data point, IoT connectivity is essential. Only a secure, global and low-power network can deliver real-time information that enables route optimisation, cost reduction and smarter use of resources.

Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) SIM technology ensures consistent communication even in challenging environments such as underground areas or remote rural locations. Designed for long-term efficiency, NB-IoT allows sensors and devices to operate for 2–5 years without maintenance, significantly reducing operational costs and environmental impact.

MOBA relies on Vodafone’s IoT network to guarantee a stable, scalable service that can grow alongside the needs of each municipality. This connectivity brings together all data from containers and vehicles in the MAWIS U2 management platform, enabling continuous optimisation and informed decision-making for more efficient services for citizens.

A digital ecosystem that boosts urban efficiency

MOBA has created a fully connected ecosystem where sensors, chips and software work together through Vodafone IoT — enabling personalised waste collection, smarter operations and compliance with new regulation.

Smart Containers Equipped with Vodafone IoT SIMs, electronic locks and sensors, they record every opening and are all linked to the appropriate user.

Personalised Tariffing Identifying users via mobile and smart cards allows for fair and transparent tariffs, based on the amount and type of waste generated by each household.

Optimised Routes Fill-level sensors avoid unnecessary collections. Software automatically adjusts routes in real time based on vehicle capacity, container status and waste type.

Data Management and Incentives Real-time data from containers and recycling points helps municipalities manage inventories, plan routes, apply incentives and make data-driven decisions.

Connected innovation for cleaner cities

The collaboration between MOBA and Vodafone IoT is reshaping the way cities manage their resources. Connected technology turns data into fast, effective decisions that enhance service quality and improve the experience for both municipalities and citizens.

More efficient and transparent operations Real-time monitoring and automated routing optimises resources and reduces unnecessary journeys. Lower costs and reduced environmental impact Smarter planning helps municipalities cut operational expenses and reduce CO2 emissions. Citizen engagement and fairness Every user contributes directly to recycling targets and understands the value of their actions through a clearer, more equitable system.

“Thanks to Vodafone IoT’s connectivity, we’ve made waste management smarter and more efficient – giving municipalities the tools to optimise resources and improve public services.”
– Albert Daví, CEO of MOBA ISE