From Thursday 26 October, there will be two new waste containers on the Boulevard, opposite the COOP supermarket on the campus. Known as ‘Clean Cubes’, they are intended for residual waste and PMD - plastic, metal, and drink cartons. The containers will be in place for a few months, as part of a pilot scheme.
The waste containers are very easy to use. In fact, the Clean Cubes works in exactly the same way as the waste containers currently on the campus. You throw your waste into the container opening - and that’s it. The differences are on the inside.
Getting rid of your waste in an environmentally friendly way - always
Under the metal exterior of the Clean Cubes is an automatic crusher. It presses all the waste together, which means that more waste can fit in the container. A sensor gives off a signal when it is almost full, so the waste collectors know exactly when it needs emptying. The technology means that the waste collectors do not have to come unnecessarily, or as frequently, which benefits the environment. It’s also good to know that you can always dispose of your waste, given that the containers are never full.
Data collection
The Clean Cubes have a software system, and there is also a mobile app that we use to continuously collect data on their current status and on maintaining the containers. The software provides clear information on how much is deposited in the containers, and how often, and this data is used to determine the route taken by the waste collection vehicle.
Evaluation
The University of Twente, together with ESE B.V., is using this pilot scheme to investigate how waste collection at the university can be organized more sustainably and more efficiently. At the end of the trial period, the data collected and a user survey will be used as the basis for an evaluation. We will share the results from the evaluation in the student magazine and on the intranet; news of other developments will be published on the website.
Like to know more? View a clip here, for an explanation.
