Smart bins boost waste sorting

- Smart bin (in Italian: smart bins) are waste containers equipped with digital technology that makes them “smart”, capable of collecting data and improving waste management.

In practice it is a container that:

• “understands” how full it is
• communicates information
• sometimes recognizes or classifies waste

Smart bins typically use:

• sensors (ultrasound, laser, etc.) to measure the fill level
• wireless connection to send data to management systems
• with that analyzes information

And like this:

• they signal when they are full
• they allow the routes of the collection trucks to be optimised
• reduce costs and pollution

Some smart bins are even more advanced and can:

• recognize the type of waste (e.g. plastic, electronics)
• open automatically contactless
• reward citizens with incentives (e.g. discount coupons for correct recycling)

Smart bins are mostly used in Smart cities why:

• improve waste separation
• avoid full bins or dirty streets
• reduce emissions and operating costs
• encourage more sustainable behaviors