EcoTrack: Visualizing Your Daily Carbon Footprint

Core Functionality

• Daily Activity Logger: Users input simple activities (e.g., commuting mode, food type, energy usage) via a friendly form.
• Carbon Footprint Dashboard: Real‑time visualizations show total emissions, category breakdowns, and trend over time using line and pie charts.
• Personalized Recommendations: The app suggests low‑carbon alternatives based on user data and local resources.
• Goal Tracking & Gamification: Users can set emission reduction goals and earn badges for milestones.

Problem It Solves

Many people want to reduce their environmental impact but lack clear, actionable information. EcoTrack translates everyday habits into measurable carbon emissions, empowering users with insights that motivate sustainable behavior without overwhelming them with complex science.

Technical Requirements

• Frontend: React (or Vue) for dynamic UI, Chart.js or D3.js for interactive charts.
• Backend: Node.js with Express; simple REST API to store user logs and compute emissions.
• Database: SQLite (local storage) or Firebase Firestore for scalability.
• Hosting: Netlify or Vercel for static front‑end, Heroku for backend.

Monetization Strategy

1. Freemium Model: Basic dashboard free; premium tier unlocks advanced analytics, personalized coaching, and integration with smart home devices.
2. Affiliate Partnerships: Link to eco‑friendly products (e.g., reusable bottles) with affiliate revenue on purchases.
3. Data Insights: Aggregate anonymous data sold to NGOs or research institutions for sustainability studies (with user consent).

Implementation Approach

1. Week 1–2: Set up project repo, scaffold React app, design simple UI mockups.
2. Week 3–4: Build activity logger form; connect to backend API; store data in SQLite.
3. Week 5–6: Implement carbon calculation logic using a lightweight emissions factor table.
4. Week 7–8: Integrate Chart.js to display daily/weekly/monthly charts.
5. Week 9: Add goal‑setting feature and badge system.
6. Week 10: Polish UI, add responsive design, write documentation.
7. Week 11: Deploy front‑end and backend; set up analytics and basic monetization features.

Potential Challenges

• Accurate Emission Data: Simplifying factors may reduce precision. Solution: Use reputable sources (EPA, DEFRA) and provide a disclaimer.
• User Engagement: Keeping users logging daily actions can be hard. Solution: Gamify with streaks and badges; send gentle reminders.

Future Expansion

• Integrate with wearable APIs to auto‑track activity data.
• Expand to household energy monitoring via smart meters.
• Offer a community leaderboard for local sustainability challenges.
• Add multilingual support to reach global users.