Baltimore bins take recycling to the pedestrian level
An innovative recycling initia-tive has recently hit the streets of Baltimore, MD, thanks to a partnership aimed at helping the community save money, generate revenue, and beautify city streets. The project features 26 litter and recycling receptacles, called PartnerBins, which were strategically placed at high-traffic locations in the downtown district. Sporting a decorative surface, the bins encourage tourists, local residents, and workers to recycle paper, plastic, and aluminum, while they stroll around town. Each bin boasts a 90-gal. capacity and separate collection points for recyclables and waste. Local officials are pleased because the bins were installed at no cost to the city. Instead, OutdoorPartner Media, based in Kingsport, TN, sells advertising on four sides of each bin. Revenue derived from advertising pays for the installation. In addition, the company shares a portion of the revenue with the city, plus absorbs the cost of cleaning and maintaining the bins appearance. The city is responsible for disposing of the waste and recyclables collected. Baltimore is said to be the first major city to participate in the PartnerBin program, which is quickly catching on with other municipalities across the nation. The bins are made by Victor Stanley, Inc., a Dunkirk, MD-based manufacturer of site furnishings. Besides gracing Baltimore streets, the bins can also provide recycling solutions for schools, airports, subway stations, stadiums, and other public venues.