Trash just got greener at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. The Zoo is installing brightly colored BigBelly solar-powered compacting trash and recycling bins. The seven compactors are a new way to recycle efficiently and conserve space in landfills and will complement the many traditional recycling containers currently located in the Zoo.
It is now equally easy for Cleveland Metroparks Zoo's 1.2 million annual visitors to recycle as it is to throw something away, reinforcing the Zoo's mission to effect positive change through sustainable practices. The Zoo strives to be a leader in sustainability by developing and implementing Zoo-wide green practices and promoting sustainability in Northeast Ohio.
�As a conservation agency we are always looking for ways to help the environment and these new units will reduce the Zoo's carbon footprint,� said Brian Zimmerman, Cleveland Metroparks CEO. �Not only will the bins encourage recycling, but by compacting the trash, we use less trash bags and less room in the landfill.�
The BigBelly solar-powered compacting trash and single stream recycling bins collect plastic, aluminum and landfill and hold five times more than normal bins, are more sanitary and require fewer pickups. The bins use solar panels to power a motor that automatically compacts contents, resulting in the need for fewer bags and lower fuel emissions from fewer pickups. An electronic sensor installed in the bin wirelessly alerts staff when the bin becomes full and needs to be changed.
�BigBelly Solar is extremely pleased to be part of this partnership between Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and the Alcoa Foundation,� said Rick Gaudette, BigBelly Director. �We see the BigBelly system as a visible way to bring green infrastructure and sustainable practices to park systems. �
The bins were made possible by a generous grant from Alcoa Foundation.
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