A council is trialling new "trailblazing" bins featuring four different compartments - for all household waste and recycling.<br /><br />North Somerset Council say the "innovative'' approach to collections will help reduce litter.<br /><br />The trial will look at the advantages of using the larger bins - which feature four compartments, three wheels and a lid.<br /><br />Called 'Quatro' bins they are already a big hit in Scandinavia.<br /><br />Residents in north Somerset taking part in the trial will use these new style bins instead of their existing multiple recycling and waste containers.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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. <br /><br />"Despite our existing excellent track record for recycling, we’re striving to improve even further by trailblazing more efficient and effective collection methods. <br /><br />"This project fits squarely with our vision to be a leading authority in minimising waste and tackling the climate emergency."<br /><br />The system, called ‘Quatro’, has been used in Scandinavia for around 20 years.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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. <br /><br />"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. <br /><br />"Residents not taking part in the trial will not see any changes to their current collection arrangements.”<br /><br />For more information about the project, visit www.n-somerset.gov.uk/quatro.
