New Solar-Powered Trash Cans Are Spreading Across Disney World
Solar-powered trash cans have begun taking over Walt Disney World. You might be wondering why trash cans need solar power, but these feature-rich receptacles can compact their contents and alert Cast Members when they’re full.
This is where I talk about how I miss simpler times, when my washing machine and refrigerator didn’t require a motherboard. You know, when repairing an appliance didn’t cost more than replacing it. But I digress.
According to a video shared on the Walt Disney World Cast and Community Facebook page, the new system should free up Cast Members to focus on other parts of their jobs.
I’ve not written about these technological marvels until now. I despise trash cans. I’m the guy who pushes the door open with a napkin so I don’t have to touch filth. I also wash my hands for 20 seconds in theme park restrooms. But I’m definitely not a hypochondriac. Maybe that’s coming.
I loved COVID-era trash cans with their always-open doors. I understand why that wasn’t a long-term solution, with odors, flies, and everything else that goes with garbage. But these new models address my biggest complaint about throwing anything away. A foot pedal opens the door, eliminating the need to touch someone else’s Diet Coke residue or turkey leg juice. The cans are also accessible, allowing guests to pull the door open by hand when needed.
Even with those positives, the limited rollout has been met with trepidation from some guests. Social media has not been especially kind. The door’s wide lip combined with guests’ bad aim means you might encounter a mess when throwing away your own garbage.
And the cans don’t always work. When they don’t, the door will simply refuse to open. Some guests think that’s an invitation to place their trash on top of the can. Don’t be that person. Be like Kevin, who had to visit four trash cans over the weekend before finding one that wanted to compact his lunch.
Impact on EPCOT Festival Dining
Some guests are concerned about what these taller, curvier cans could mean for Festival dining at EPCOT. The park’s shortage of tables has long forced visitors to use trash cans as makeshift dining surfaces.
I’ve never done this. I think we’ve already established why.
By most accounts, the new model’s curved, textured top does a surprisingly good job of holding food and drinks. We recommend testing yourself before committing to the table, however.
The updated trash cans were first introduced in EPCOT’s Germany Pavilion in late 2024. This summer, they’ve begun appearing in Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom. Eventually, they’ll make their way to all four theme parks, both water parks, and Disney Springs.
While some are generic, models shown in the video are themed to their location. That’s important to many, many guests. Me? I’m just looking forward to tossing trash away with the help of my shoe.
