Eighty-two litter bins in Salford will now let council workers know when they need emptying.
The bins, which are being trialled in Ordsall and Salford Quays are fitted with sensors which monitor how full they are. Collections can then be tailored to bins which need immediate attention instead of crews checking every bin in the area.
The bins are also twice as large as the ones being replaced and, if successful, could be rolled out to replace more of the 1,800 litter bins across the city.
Peter Openshaw, Strategic Director Place, said: “We’ve seen a massive increase in the numbers of people visiting local parks and open spaces and using our litter bins over the last year. Some bins are now being emptied twice daily at ‘hotspots’ because areas have become so popular.
“The smart bins will help us provide a timely response which I’m sure the public will appreciate. It will also free up staff time to tackle other environmental issues around the city and will be better for our carbon footprint by reducing journeys.
“The public can help by making sure they always dispose of litter properly when out and about.”
