A partnership between Hull City Council and a local tech firm will see new smart bins introduced across the city.
The local authority is working with Connexin on the scheme, which will involve installing 30 sensors to monitor waste levels in 15 bins in high streets, parks and public spaces.
They are being fitted to two types of bin and the pilot will run for six months.
The sensors can also detect a sudden motion or shaking, which automatically trigger vandalism alerts, as well as sudden spikes in bin temperature, which trigger fire detection warnings.
“This technology will enable teams on the ground to make more informed choices by emptying bins based on fill level, traffic conditions and much more, reducing unnecessary travel time related to waste collection around the city, in turn saving time, fuel and CO2 emissions,” said Connexin CEO Furqan Alamgir.
Up to now waste collection teams have had to target each and every bin without knowing if they are full or empty.
If the six-month long pilot project is successful, it will help ensure Hull’s bins are emptied more efficiently, leading to fewer unnecessary vehicle journeys.
It will also help the council choose the placement of future bins.
Anita Harrison, portfolio holder for Streetscene at Hull City Council, added: “Tackling waste issues is a top priority for Hull City Council, and we are always keen to explore ways in which we can make our services much more effective.
“Smart City technologies are just one way in which we can provide an improved service for our city, and achieve our aim to create a litter-free environment that residents are proud to live in.
“The council sees Smart City technologies as key components of its strategic corporate plan, as well as a major contributor to the City Plan, and we are delighted that Hull will be recognised as a leading smart city in the UK.”