Bin sensors installed in NSW

In a first for the region, Central Coast Council has installed a new solar compaction bin and connected 46 new sensors to existing waste stations across Entrance Town in New South Wales.

The new technology monitors the volume of bins to improve servicing schedules.

Council Waste Director Boris Bolgoff said the investment is part of council’s Place Litter Bin Replacement and Upgrade Program, which aims to increase waste collection and reduce flyaway litter.

“The cloud-based software provides real-time data on the volume of bins to any web enabled device, with alerts set up for when bins are reaching capacity,” Mr Bolgoff said.

“This will allow constant monitoring of bins during busier times of the year, helping to reduce the impacts of litter and improve planning as crews will already know which bins need to be emptied.”

Mr Bolgoff said the new service also includes a single waste solar compactor system, which has a capacity five times higher than a traditional bin.

“This financial year will see a further $300,000 invested into the rolling Public Place Bin Program, with another 160 new waste and recycling units installed to help manage the waste needs of the growing community,” Mr Bolgoff said.

“If successful, we will investigate rolling out the technology in other popular tourism and high foot traffic areas.”

According to Mr Bolgoff, additional benefits include cost savings by purchasing waste stations in bulk, more effective maintenance, consistent design, increased safety and opportunities to recycle.

Central Coast Council Mayor Lisa Matthews said it was great to see council investing in new technology.

“I applaud council for listening to and acting upon community concerns regarding litter bins during peak holiday times,” Ms Matthews said.

“Aside from protecting our unique environment from litter, the project will help maintain the appearance of our well-known tourist destinations, which is integral to the economic development of the region.”

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