As useful as skip bins are for managing commercial waste, many companies struggle when it comes to correctly sorting this waste. Simply dumping garbage into a skip without proper sorting can cause many different complications. For example, you may end up mixing recyclables with non-recyclables, incorrectly dumping hazardous items, or using the wrong size skip bin (thus incurring higher costs).

The good news is that technology can help make this sorting process easier. Automated tools have lots of potential for skip bins, from automated lids to sensors that can tell when the skip is almost full. Here are additional examples of helpful skip bin technologies.

1. Separating recyclables from non-recyclables

As most businesses continue to emphasise sustainability, recycling has become one of the most popular initiatives towards achieving this goal. Unfortunately, the efficiency of recycling processes still needs work. Many companies accidentally place trash in recycling containers and make it harder for garbage disposal companies to carry out proper sorting.

This challenge can now be addressed by using smart garbage sorters. Some smaller trash cans now use cameras to detect whether the item being disposed of is recyclable or not. After detection, the item is moved to an appropriate section (within the bin) and the sorting process becomes automated.

Similar technology can be applied to larger skip bins. When recyclable waste is being placed inside the skip, sensors can detect the relevant items and automatically place them in their correct position. In this way, your garbage disposal company doesn't have to spend hours separating recyclables from non-recyclables.     

2. Giving advanced warnings when the skip is almost full

Volume sensors are nothing new in the garbage disposal industry. However, they can still be used to automate much of the skip bin rental process. When your skip is almost full, sensors can send a signal to your garbage disposal service. This signal will inform the company to pick up your skip and empty it before it overflows. Sensors help you save on the time and cost of being stuck with an overflowing skip on your premises.  

3. Automatically detecting hazardous waste

For many years, properly separating hazardous and non-hazardous waste has been a challenge. There are many cases where sharps ended up cutting workers or chemicals ended up spilling in the wrong places. Technology can be used to reduce these errors and make garbage disposal much safer. In particular, sensors placed in a skip bin (or on garbage disposal bags) can be used to detect high levels of chemical waste. These sensors will tell you to place such waste in the correct type of skip.  

For more information, contact a skip bin service near you.