Plans are underway to install an interactive, waste-guzzling sculpture in Sunderland city centre and the general public has been asked to help make the vision a reality.
Here’s everything you need to know about Sunderland’s plan to install an interactive waste machine in the city centre…
Sunderland BID has joined forces with North East-based TA!LAB to design a unique work of art to be sited at Market Square.
And not only will the, as yet unnamed, sculpture provide an attractive addition to the area, but it will have a highly practical and environmental element.
It is designed to replicate a vending machine but, rather than give items out, it will collect products which can then be recycled, with a visual ‘reward’ for the person who contributes.
The machine will have different slots for different kinds of products, such as plastic, glass and metal, which are particularly relevant in a city centre where people may be walking around with bottles or cans of drinks.
The BID hopes it will become a local attraction, not only boosting visitor numbers and the economy, but also helping to teach young people about the need to Recycle.
It has launched a crowdfunding page in the hope of raising £3,558 to create, install and maintain the sculpture.
Who is TA!LAB and how will the machine work?
TA!LAB are a North East based company and they’re a collaborative design studio showcasing emerging design talent through architecture and cutting-edge interiors.
TA! stands for Tangible Amusements, and their catchphrase to describe what is created by the intersection of design, space and branding.
An reverse vending machine or is a recycling device with integrated technology that accepts used (empty) beverage containers in return for a monetary or non-monetary reward – these can be for example high-street vouchers, discounts at select retailers or even donations to a local charity.
Most modern day machines collect, sort, compact and store bottles and cans ready for onward recycling. This helps to provide a simple and effective solution to beverage container waste.
Making our city a cleaner, greener and more pleasant place to visit…
Sharon Appleby, Chief Executive at Sunderland BID:
“This sculpture works on so many levels,” she said,
“From increasing awareness of the value of recycling, to making our city centre a cleaner, greener and more pleasant place to visit.
“It will also be an invaluable tool in explaining to children from an early age about the importance of recycling – hopefully creating good habits which will last them a lifetime.”
Donations can be made via https://www.spacehive.com/recycling-sculpture#/idea and pledges will only be charged if the project hits its funding goal of £3,558 by 19 June.
Stay in touch with the latest Sunderland news and updates. Twitter: @SunderlandVibe, Instagram: @SunderlandVibe, Facebook: @SunderlandVibe.
