Being innovative with waste

Penrith City Council in collaboration with SUEZ, Stillwell Trucks and Mercedes-Benz Trucks have launched Australia’s first smart waste collection vehicle. 

The vehicle is unique due to its innovative steerable rear axle, which allows the large vehicle to operate within the specifications of a more manoeuvrable small collection vehicle.  

As cities grow and density within city centres change, the demands on essential services need to adapt to the built environment. Penrith City Council has long been a leader in waste services and in true Penrith style, this innovative reimagining of the traditional garbage truck continues that legacy. 

Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM said the smart waste collection vehicle supports planning and urban design principles and the way more people are living. 

“The streamlined vehicle comes with less height restrictions, it’s better at navigating basement ramps and is easier to manoeuvre – making it perfect for higher density living,” Cr McKeown said. 

“As well as being Mayor of Penrith, I’m one of Council’s sustainability champions and I cannot overstate the role Waste Services plays in making our city a sustainable and attractive place to live. 

“Our innovative approach to waste is far reaching and I would like to congratulate everyone involved in this project, it’s just one more example of why Penrith is such a great place to live, work and visit. 

The adoption of industry-leading technology and collaboration between public and private sector supports the integration of innovative on-site waste collection infrastructure.  

The introduction of the smart waste collection vehicle supports the maintenance of amenity and eliminates potentially dangerous kerbside pickups in built up areas.  More information can be found here  

Image: New Smart Waste Collection Vehicle