A Surrey council is taking a significant step toward sustainability by installing over 120 new solar-powered litter bins across its borough. The Reigate & Banstead Borough Council announced that these innovative bins can hold at least five times more waste than traditional litter bins and require less frequent emptying.
Enhancing Environmental Sustainability
Councillor Hannah Avery emphasized that the new bins will facilitate responsible waste disposal and help keep the borough “litter-free and looking good.” This initiative is part of the council’s broader strategy to improve both environmental and financial sustainability.
Features of the Smart Bins
Among the new installations, nine bins will feature interactive capabilities, allowing them to “talk back” to users. The council is collaborating with local schools to record messages that will be played by these talking bins, further engaging the community in waste management efforts.
The smart bins have the ability to compact waste and send alerts to the borough’s cleansing team, ensuring they are emptied only when necessary. This smart technology will help the council reduce fuel costs and minimize pollution, while also freeing up time for the cleansing team to focus on other important tasks, such as clearing fly tips and graffiti.
Installation Timeline
The solar-powered bins will be installed in town centers over the next few weeks, with older bins being removed to make way for these advanced models. The initiative is funded through the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), a charge on new development aimed at supporting infrastructure needed for new homes and businesses.
Conclusion
The introduction of solar-powered litter bins in Surrey represents a forward-thinking approach to waste management. By leveraging technology, Reigate & Banstead Borough Council is not only enhancing the cleanliness of the borough but also promoting environmental sustainability.
