Smart Bins

Wheelie bins that use sensors would alert GPs if pensioners had not taken their rubbish out for a fortnight.

17:05 16 March 2016

Sensors in wheelie bins can be used to alert doctors if frail pensioners haven’t put their rubbish out for a fortnight. Innovation charity Nesta believes that using such technology could save the government billions of pounds.  

 

The idea was based on a fictional retired bus driver called Martin in his 70s who is living in the 20125 but finds technology confusing.

 

The report said: “If Martin doesn't put his rubbish out for two weeks in a row, this is automatically registered on the council's system through the sensors in his bins.”

 

'The integrated system knows Martin is in his 70s and has mobility issues so automatically generates a notification for his GP that Martin might need support.

 

'From this, a GP can make a quick phone call to check everything is OK.'

 

The research added that the technology has the potential to allow early intervention to cut care costs.

 

Julie Simon, head of government innovation research at Nesta, said: 'As budget cuts begin to bite councils have found themselves at a crossroads.

 

'Although digital technologies are by no means a silver bullet, they can help councils improve on the important services they offer; transforming their delivery, stimulating economic growth and ultimately improving the way they manage themselves and their resources.'