Categories: News

Big Belly Solar Trash Cans in Philadelphia!

Huge confession … I’m getting trashy.  Or at least excited about trash.

(Seriously!)

If you reside in Philadelphia/have visited recently, you’ve noticed the Big Belly Solar Trash cans popping up all over Center City.  The city of brotherly love decided to test trash receptacles last year and has exploded to over 500 units. At least 210 units have a corresponding recycling bin component, which is a first for the city.  (No more excuses about not seeing a recycling bin nearby!)

The Big Belly cans are the only solar-powered cordless compaction system.  Using the sun’s energy, the trash condenses waste automatically to be 1/4 of the size, equaling reducing overflow, cutting collection trips and cutting greenhouse gas by 80%!  These bins can hold 200 gallons of trash (versus the average 55 gallons) and can operate on ONE WEEK the energy it takes to make 1 pot of coffee… Talk about efficient!

The receptacle itself is green, made of galvanized steel and recyclable ABS plastic sides. And for those who question the city’s priorities in the middle of this “recession”, these puppies will be saving the city over $12 million over 10 years.

Fore more information, check out Big Belly Solar’s site shoutout to Philadelphia.

Posted by Julie

Julie Hancher

Julie Hancher is Editor-in-Chief of Green Philly, sharing her expertise of all things sustainable in the city of brotherly love. She enjoys long walks in the park with local beer and greening her travels, cooking & cat, Sir Floofus Drake.

Recent Posts

Eco-Explainer: What is a rain garden?

Let's dig into this form of GSI, and three perennial flowers that are also good…

16 hours ago

PA exits RGGI, 10-cent bag fees, Birds supporting Birds & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news: Pa. budget deal officially kills key greenhouse gas…

7 days ago

Exact Solar Celebrates 20 Years: Reflecting on the journey

From a family business to over 2,500 projects across the region, Exact Solar keeps community,…

1 week ago

Climate Change is overwhelming Philly’s sewers. Here’s what GSI can do for stormwater.

Why heavier rain means more sewage in Philly’s rivers As climate change brings more frequent…

1 week ago

Advocates want the district’s long-term facilities plan to prioritize climate preparedness.

The Philadelphia school system is undergoing a facilities planning process and will be announcing school…

2 weeks ago

New SBN leadership, new round of city cleanups, & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news: Sustainable Business Network welcomes new executive director. Zoraida…

2 weeks ago