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Solar-Powered Sanitation Spreads Through EPCOT
EPCOT guests are noticing a quiet, yet significant, upgrade to the park’s waste management system. The innovative solar-powered trash cans, first spotted in the Germany Pavilion, are now expanding their presence, with a new unit appearing in the Norway Pavilion, conveniently located just outside Kringla Bakeri.
Related-New Solar Powered Trash Cans at the Germany Pavilion in EPCOT
These modern waste receptacles, manufactured by “BigBelly,” represent a leap forward in park cleanliness and efficiency. Their most immediate benefit to guests is the hands-free operation: a simple foot pedal opens the chute, making it easier than ever to dispose of trash, especially when juggling snacks or merchandise. This touchless design offers a welcome hygienic improvement for visitors.
Related-New Bulk Candy Options in Iconic Trash Cans Now at Disney World
The “smart” capabilities of these trash cans go far beyond a foot pedal, however. Each unit is equipped with solar panels on top, providing the energy needed to power an internal compactor. This compaction feature allows the cans to hold significantly more waste – up to five times that of a traditional trash can – before needing to be emptied. This means fewer overflowing bins, even during peak park hours and busy festival seasons.
Furthermore, these BigBelly units are designed to communicate. They wirelessly alert Cast Members when they are nearing full capacity, allowing custodial teams to prioritize emptying efforts and ensure a more efficient allocation of resources. This real-time monitoring helps to maintain the high standards of cleanliness Disney parks are known for.
While the location of the new Norway Pavilion can, situated under the canopy of Kringla Bakeri, might raise questions about its solar recharging capabilities, these units are typically designed with backup battery power to ensure continuous operation even in less-than-ideal sunlight conditions.
The expansion of these solar-powered trash cans beyond their initial test run in Germany suggests a potential wider rollout across EPCOT, and perhaps even other Disney parks. As EPCOT continues to evolve as the “Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow,” these high-tech, eco-friendly trash cans are a subtle yet impactful step towards a more sustainable and efficient guest experience. Keep an eye out for these “smart” additions on your next visit!
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