In a recent update from Laois County Council, Portlaoise’s innovative solar-powered compacting Bigbelly bins received a creative makeover.
Contrary to local beliefs that new bins had been purchased, the existing bins were actually enhanced with promotional artwork celebrating the town’s unique attributes. Simon Walton, the Council’s Director of Services, highlighted that this initiative aimed to showcase Portlaoise as a “town in a garden,” emphasising its commitment to greener living, rich history, and vibrant festival culture.
The council has effectively utilised these solar-powered compactors for over a decade, currently operating 50 units in Portlaoise. These bins not only increase operational efficiency by reducing the frequency of collections but also contribute to lower CO2 emissions. The recently applied facelift to the bins also serves as a promotional tool for the town’s Tidy Towns initiatives and supports the ongoing implementation of the town’s Biodiversity Plan 2023-2028.
The Downtown Portlaoise traders group has expressed strong support for this overhaul, recognising the bins’ role in keeping the town clean and promoting environmental sustainability. Among the highlighted advantages are increased capacity, vermin control, energy efficiency, and real-time monitoring of fill levels, which significantly enhance the town’s waste management system. The inclusion of specialised disposal options for items like pizza boxes and cigarette butts further tailors the system to community needs.
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