EDINBURGH is taking another step towards becoming a “smart city” after the city council installed new sensory technology in more than 300 litter bins to make sure they are emptied before they become full.
The sensors send data through a mobile network to staff who can then tell which bins are almost full. It is hoped the data will also help identify any improvements needed in the collection of bins and routes. The information allows staff to prioritise collections at busier spots, with the council saying some bins may not need to be emptied as often as others.
The new technology is being tested in the city centre, Leith Walk, Leith Links and Portobello.
Last month collections increased by an average of 24 per cent, with some collections doubling and even quadrupling in frequency, demonstrating the amount of litter being thrown away. The data will be used for route planning.
The technology also features heat sensors, which means if there is a fire in a bin it can be detected immediately. If there is a sudden spike in the results, it could indicate fly tipping.
Ultimately, it is hoped the new technology will optimise daily planning, with the most efficient routes being used for litter bin collections.
The council is now considering rolling out the sensors in communal bins.
Councillor Lesley Hinds, transport and environment convener for Edinburgh City Council, said: “We are learning a lot from this trial which so far has been a success. The sensors are currently in litter bins but if the positive results continue we’d like to see this roll out to communal bins and recycling banks.
“The success of the pilot is attracting a lot of attention from other major cities particularly in the US, where the authorities in Washington DC have contacted us to share our experiences with them.”
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