“The installation of these solar-powered waste and recycling kiosks has already had a dramatic effect in the area,” boasted Rick Gaudette of Bigbelly. “Look around us. This area is clean.”

The smart waste and recycling stations, designed by Bigbelly, come equipped with high-capacity trash compactors that run off of solar power. They are covered to prevent windblown litter from covering the streets and sealed to keep rats and other pests out.

“Benefits include more recycling, less litter, eliminated waste overflow, pest control and fuel conservation,” said Cumbo. “We are leading the way when it comes to green efforts. Through introduction of these sanitation services, business owners will have more time to focus on their business and contributing to the growth of an area that will continue to prosper.”

What makes the cans “smart” is the fact that they are wirelessly connected to a system that allows crews to monitor if a can is full and where the full cans are located. This lets crews pick up the trash only when necessary, which should cut down on needless trips to empty or half-full cans.

“Smart city technologies are the wave of the future, and I’m pleased that the Downtown Brooklyn Partnership is using this innovation to create a greener planet,” said Ryan Grew, director of operations for the Downtown Brooklyn Partnership. “We’re pleased to continue working with Bigbelly, National Grid and Green City on an effort that has already paid dividends in Downtown Brooklyn.”

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