Put trash where it belongs The Talking Trash campaign introduces four talking trash bins to the centre of Helsinki. The trash bins greet passers-by who stop to throw their trash away. The talking trash bins do not vary in appearance from Helsinki’s regular public bins. The idea is to surprise passers-by in a fun way. The voices emanating from the trash bins include that of the mayor, as well as those of artists, philosophers and comedians. Throughout the campaign the locations of the interactive trash bins will be switched around once a week. Likely locations include Esplanade Park, Narinkkatori Square and the Railway Station Square. The campaign kicks off on 22 August, Night of the Arts, and runs until the end of September. On the opening night one talking trash bin will be situated at the Cable Factory. If the talking trash bins receive a positive reception and are not mistreated, they may continue to surprise and delight city residents in the future. The Talking Trash campaign is being carried out by the Helsinki City Public Works Department and Public Side Ltd, which also developed the campaign. Words spoken by the talking trash bins (loosely translated from Finnish): “Hi there, I’m a talking trash bin. I just wanted to thank you for your trash, that’s all, thanks!” “City trash bins care. We care about our beautiful city, we are excited about our beautiful city, we care that we are used to collect trash. Thanks for your trash – trash that makes this city trash bin care.” “You’re not crazy – I really talk. Thanks for the refill!” “I’m Pekka Sauri. Get me out of here at once!” “Thanks. Here’s a poem in return: Don’t fill yourself up with drink, put it in the bin.” “Thanks for caring for our city. Neat or what?” Elina Nummi Janne Wrigstedt |