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Solar-Powered Trash Cans Lauded In Bloomington, IN

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. (WBBM) -- The experiment with solar-powered trash compactors in Bloomington, Ind., is being called a huge success.

As WBBM Newsradio 780's David Roe reports, 15 of the trash compactors were installed last year in downtown Bloomington, Ind., replacing the ordinary trash cans typically seen in cities.

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The problem with the old cans is that they filled up frequently and needed emptying one or more times a day.

The trash compactors, however, hold much more compacted refuse, and they need emptying once every two or three days, saving on collection costs.

The compactors were paid for by federal stimulus money, and cost $4,000 each.

Bloomington is the home of Indiana University, and is known for its involvement in the green and sustainable living movements.

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