PhiLouGii/junk_and_gems_capstone

Junk & Gems is a cross-platform mobile app connecting waste donors, artisans, and creators in Lesotho. It promotes upcycling and sustainable entrepreneurship by turning waste into valuable products, reducing environmental impact, and empowering communities. # Junk & Gems 🌍♻️ Transforming Waste into Economic Opportunity in Lesotho About • Features • Installation • Demo • Tech Stack • Contact --- ## Quick Links - **Download APK** - Install on Android - **Watch Final Demo Video** - 5-minute walkthrough - **Web App** - View in browser - **Admin Dashboard** - Manage platform - **Backend API** - Live API endpoint - **Initial Prototype Demo Video** - Initial Project setup demo video --- ## About Junk & Gems is a mobile and web-based marketplace designed to support sustainable living in Lesotho by connecting waste donors with local artisans and eco-entrepreneurs. The platform helps transform discarded materials into valuable upcycled products, promoting environmental awareness and income generation. ### The Problem Lesotho struggles with poor waste management, limited recycling infrastructure, and growing pollution. At the same time, many artisans lack access to low-cost raw materials. ### Solution Junk & Gems addresses these challenges by: - Connecting waste donors with artisans who can transform materials - Providing a marketplace for upcycled products - Encouraging eco-friendly behaviours through a reward system - Supporting a circular economy --- ## Features ### User-Oriented Features - List unwanted materials for free collection - Claim available materials - Earn "gems" for eco-friendly actions - Browse and purchase upcycled products - Chat with donors/buyers in real-time - Manage your profile and listings ### Platform Features - Secure authentication with JWT - Real-time messaging between users - Gamification system with earning gems - Image upload via Cloudinary - Multi-platform support (Android, iOS & Web) --- ## Installation ### Prerequisites Before you begin, ensure you have the following installed: - **Flutter SDK** (v3.0 or higher) - Download here - **Node.js** (v18 or higher) - Download here *(Optional - only if running backend locally)* - **PostgreSQL** (v14 or higher) - Download h …