BigBellies in the City of Brotherly Love
August 26th, 2009 Posted in Green Living & News
Philadelphia has joined a group of cities throughout 40 different states that uses an eco-friendly trash system.
Last month, 500 solar-powered BigBelly trash compactors replaced traditional waste cans across the city.
These energy-efficient refuse receptacles cost the city nothing (thanks to a state recycling grant) and will save a projected $12.9 million over the next decade. The big impact will come from the reduction of trash collections that will occur, which will save on labor and fuel costs. Weekly, the bins will only need to be changed five times, compared to the previous 19 times.
The BigBellies hold 150-200 gallons of waste. Once it becomes full, a light on the front of the bin changes from green to yellow and the city is alerted through a monitoring system.
By 2015, 210 of the cans will be paired with a recycling bin as a part of the city’s green plans.
Complaints mostly come from the inconvenience and sanitary concerns of using both hands to open the front of the trashcan. Slowing down and carrying a pocket-sized Purel are small sacrifices for a big economic and environmental impact.
By Stephanie Desmond
