Waste Management

BigBelly Solar compactors and SmartBelly trash bins are trash recepticals that are self-powered by solar energy and software-controled.   The idea of both systems is waste management, carbon monoxide and fuel dependency reduction.  Just like traditional garbage bins BigBelly and SmartBelly can be placed anywhere because they are wire free.  With the use of an A/C adapter they can even be used indoors.  With CLEAN ™ (Collection Logistics Efficiency and Notification) web-based management platform that can be accessed through any computer with Internet connection, the bins can be monitored for servicing and maintenance.

BigBelly Solar is a trash compactor that is ran by solar panels that make up the top of the trash compactor.  The placement of the panels on top of the compactor is two fold.  The first reason the panels are on top is the most obvious, it's the best location to obtain the most solar exposure through out the day.  The second is the eye level panel becomes a reminder to those who pass by bin or use it, that their community is thinking about the environment and practicing green waste management efforts. As waste collects inside a BigBelly solar compactor, an internal sensor determines when the bin is filling and triggers a compaction cycle. The software service also takes the sensor info and communicates with the CLEAN management platform, giving collection personnel real-time data on which bin needs to be emptied.   The compacting feature which allows it to hold 5 times more garbage, makes the BigBelly a fantastic choice for high traffic areas.





The SmartBelly is self-powered by solar energy as well but doesn't have the compactor feature.  It does have  the internal sensor to track and provide real-time info on the fullness status to limit unnecessary collections and to be proactive on overflow issues before they become a problem.  This type of bin would be a good choice for low traffic areas.

I couldn't find any information on if the bins have ability to operate in low light or if they had the capability to store energy.

Some accessories for the big and smartbelly are:

Messaging Panels

Messaging panels are frames to protect and display posters or advertisements on the sides of the BigBelly and SmartBelly components. This could help to offset the cost.

Wraps and Decals

BigBelly and SmartBelly components can be wrapped on all sides just like a bus or automobile.

Animal Resistant Latch 

Help prevent bears and other large scavenging animals from getting into the trash (ADA compliant).  This would be good for parks and recreation facilities.

Stub out plate

For extinguishing cigarettes.

The environmental benefits of the trash compactors almost seem to be a by product of what I would have to believe would be the company's primary goal, reduced operating cost and improved manpower efficiency.   Because the bins can hold 5 times more garbage, this will reduce the amount of trips that have to be made in gas guzzling automobiles. It also reduces the maintenance on these vehicles due to excessive use. With the CLEAN management platform it eliminates unproductive site visits due to half filled trash bins or coming to late and trash is now overflowing onto the ground which requires additional site time to clean up the mess.  The personnel can work on other projects between site visit because they will know when they are needed.  Hopefully this doesn't eliminate jobs but would rather allow government, businesses and educational institutions to use the existing man power more efficiently.

However, it looks like when people are giving the option to recycle their garbage using these devices,they will.  It appear to attract people I believe out of curiosity and appeal.

In Halifax, Novi Scotia they did a case study using four bins that would collect drink containers, paper, organics and garbage and the numbers speak for themselves.   The recycling rates on the boardwalk was at 95 percent for beverage containers and 83 percent for paper but only at 49 percent for organics.

A case study in Philadelphia showed the financial impact that thinking green could have  to the city's bottom line by using the BigBelly and SmartBelly.  The city will realize nearly $13 million
in savings over a 10 year period.

Even here locally in DFW we are getting in on the next big thing in sustainable waste management.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K4EBGr1yaWY