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Rosslyn BID Installs Solar-Powered Trash Compactors

Big Bellies use renewable energy to save money and turn BID into cleaner, eco-friendly zone

Rosslyn, VA – The Rosslyn Business Improvement District (BID) installed 30 Big Belly® solar trash compactors on Rosslyn sidewalks in late June. The newest technology in solid waste management, Big Belly is an important tool in Rosslyn’s drive to creating a more eco-friendly urban district.

With five times the capacity of an ordinary can, Big Belly receptacles eliminate about 4 out of every 5 collection trips, for an 80% savings in fuel and other resources. A built-in solar panel at the top of each Big Belly drives a powerful trash compactor. Each unit, completely self-powered, can convert up to 180 gallons of waste, even when placed in the shade. When the unit reaches capacity, sensors trigger an internal compactor that flattens the contents, converting 180 gallons of waste into easy-to-collect bags. The Big Belly design also keeps rodents and birds out of the trash. The compactor reduces air-born particulates, greenhouse gases, and reliance on oil. The Rosslyn BID purchased the trash compactors and 12 companion recycling units from Big Belly Solar, based in Needham, MA.

“The Big Bellies are a big win for Rosslyn and Arlington. One year ago, the Rosslyn BID was in the forefront when we added the Rosslyn-Ballston Corridor’s first permanent recycling bins to county sidewalks. This takes that commitment one step further, helping reduce trash pickups, which save energy and money,” says Cecilia Cassidy, Executive Director of the Rosslyn BID.

The typical American creates approximately 30 pounds of waste per week. Much of this waste ends up on the streets, and regular trash cans in high-use neighborhoods typically must be emptied daily.

The cost savings are a great incentive. Arlington County announced that starting July 1 budget constraints required a reduction in trash collection along the Rosslyn-Ballston Corridor. Big Bellies directly address the County’s new collection restraints. Arlington County Board Chairman Jay Fisette says the Rosslyn BID’s purchase of the solar compactors aligns with Arlington’s 2010 focus on fiscal and environmental sustainability. “The County applauds the Rosslyn BID for proving that it is possible to leverage technology to achieve cost savings and improve services,” says Fisette. The City of Philadelphia recently installed 500 Big Bellies, and estimates they will save $13 million over 10 years.
 

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Monique O'Grady
Communications Director
mogrady@rosslynva.org
(703) 522-6628 ext.14