Council tries wheelie bins with four compartments

A council is trialing new bins featuring four different compartments - for all household waste and recycling. North Somerset Council say the "innovative'' approach to collections will help reduce litter.

The trial will look at the advantages of using the larger bins - which feature four compartments, three wheels and a lid. Called 'Quatro' bins they are already a big hit in Scandinavia.

Residents in north Somerset taking part in the trial will use these new style bins instead of their existing multiple recycling and waste containers. The bins will be collected by a specialist recycling vehicle which features a unique lift mechanism that matches the bin's four compartments to the lorry's four collection chambers.

It is hoped that the new system could provide a range of benefits to households including increased recycling capacity and ease of sorting, an easier to move bin and reduction of litter.

A new "trailblazing" recycling bin - featuring four compartments in one bin (SWNS)

Lucy Shomali, North Somerset Council's Director of Place, said: “It’s exciting to see North Somerset trialing this innovative technology, a first in the UK. Despite our existing excellent track record for recycling, we’re striving to improve even further by trailblazing more efficient and effective collection methods.

"This project fits squarely with our vision to be a leading authority in minimising waste and tackling the climate emergency."

The system, called ‘Quatro’, has been used in Scandinavia for around 20 years. If the trial is successful and the new system implemented, the council would reduce the number of journeys needed to collect household recycling and waste – reducing pollution, congestion on the roads and saving the council money.

A new "trailblazing" recycling bin - featuring four compartments in one bin (SWNS)

Lucy added: "It’s important for residents to be aware that this is purely a trial at this stage. We haven’t made a commitment beyond this initial trial. Depending on the feedback and outcomes we see, further trials will be needed before councillors can review the results and decide how best to proceed.

"Residents not taking part in the trial will not see any changes to their current collection arrangements.”