When people think about waste bins, they think of a simple and effective waste management solution. A container to dispose of their waste. However, as the modern world evolves and grows, even the simplest objects in the world are receiving overhauls. And waste bins are no stranger to this. Dubai is an industrial and commercial powerhouse in the Middle-East and the city’s innovators have found some ingenious solutions for waste bins that enhance the waste management process, making it more efficient and environmentally friendly.
Solar Powered Waste Bins with WiFi
Among the most exciting innovations with waste bins in Dubai are solar powered waste bins. These bins use solar-powered compactors and can hold between 5-8 times the usual amount of trash compared to regular waste bins. They are also part of an effort by the UAE to provide free WiFi across the country. Relying on a renewable, naturally available source of energy enables them to power devices such as a WiFI router installed in them, which can provide free WiFi to Dubai’s residents.
Underground Waste Bins for Minimising Clutter on the Surface
Dubai is also investing in an underground waste collection system. These systems employ hidden recycle bins that are installed underground and do not take up space on the surface. They are designed to reduce clutter and improve the overall aesthetic appeal of the city. Since they are installed underground and not visible to the public eye, these underground waste collection systems can also use larger capacity waste bins, improving overall efficiency in terms of waste management. They are also capable of reducing unpleasant odours in the city limits.
Waste Sorting Systems in Garbage Bins
In order to improve the city’s overall waste management system and reduce pollution caused by landfills and congregation of waste, Dubai is implementing waste sorting systems. From kitchen garbage bins in homes to publicly available plastic recycling machines, individuals as well as local bodies in Dubai are investing in waste bins with segregated compartments to improve waste sorting and responsibly dispose of hazardous waste materials.
Gamified Waste Bins
Another innovative experiment conducted by Dubai’s waste management authorities is gamified waste bins. These waste bins are designed with software that offers rewards and incentivizes responsible disposal of waste material among the public. For instance, every time an individual uses one of these bins to responsibly dispose of waste, they’re awarded points, which can be redeemed for a reward once they’ve amassed enough points.
AI-Powered Waste Segregation
AI has emerged as a technology that is all-pervasive in nature and improves various aspects of daily life. Dubai is exploring how it can help with waste management as well. Waste balers and recycling balers are equipped with computers and software powered by AI, which can recognise the waste being disposed of in them and segregate it responsibly. An ingenious approach to segregated waste management, which has become a necessity in a world that is desperately trying to avoid landfills.
Dubai is among the most technologically advanced cities in the world and home to some of the brightest innovators in the Middle East. These innovations may not be mainstream yet, but they are indicative of the city’s commitment to growth and responsible waste management. Where technology helps, it helps immensely, and the city’s authorities recognise this. Power Bear is among the most recognised waste management brands in Dubai for this reason.
