Smart bins to improve waste collection in Hull

A partnership between Hull City Council and Connexin will see smart bins introduced across the city in a ground breaking pilot project to improve waste collection.

The technology company will install sensors which will be responsible for gathering data in real time, turning every bin into an intelligent ‘smart bin’. This will enable the council to monitor waste levels so that street cleansing teams can see when they need emptying. The ability to communicate information on fill levels will help Hull City Council understand the optimal times for waste collections and can recommend time-effective collection routes.

The sensors will also be able to detect a sudden motion, which automatically triggers vandalism alerts, as well as sudden spikes in bin temperature, which trigger fire detection warnings.

It is hoped that the pilot project will result in fewer unnecessary collection vehicle journeys, reducing congestion on the roads and cutting CO2 emissions.

Anita Harrison, portfolio holder for Streetscene at Hull City Council, said: “Tackling waste issues is a top priority for Hull City Council, and we are always keen to explore ways in which we can make our services much more effective. Smart City technologies are just one way in which we can provide an improved service for our city, and achieve our aim to create a litter-free environment that residents are proud to live in.

“The council sees Smart City technologies as key components of its strategic corporate plan, as well as a major contributor to the City Plan, and we are delighted that Hull will be recognised as a leading smart city in the UK.”