Local Authorities are charged with the collection of multiple refuse and recycling streams. Add to that the UK’s impending domestic food waste collections and the continuing expectation for effective, eco-conscious street cleansing and winter maintenance (all under the constraints of very limited budgets) and you can see why many Councils are looking to integrated technology as an essential part of the solution.

Waste and recycling management, street cleansing and winter maintenance are complicated operations by nature. Vehicle-based and in-cab technology can streamline many of the nuanced tasks and processes involved. The data from onboard vehicle technology and in-cab systems can inform decisions around service performance, policy and strategy development, safety, and operational costs - as well as capital funds required.

Integrated Skills are focussed on providing software solutions for local authorities, solutions that work in harmony with other technologies to produce the results required: integrated thinking, integrated solutions, Integrated Skills.

Here we’ll be explaining some of the complex tasks and processes we can make simple through technology integration.

Vehicle Tracking

When you think of vehicle tracking, you likely assume it’s all about keeping tabs on the location of a fleet but there’s much more to it than that. Modern vehicle tracking provides data that can be used for:

• Strategic route optimisation - baselining of the existing routes driven compared to scenario plans of future fleet/property requirements
• The assessment & comparison of emissions from a collection fleet consisting of a mix of vehicles – diesel, electric, hydrogen
• Operational management: Comparing the routes driven to the optimised plan

A ‘live stream’ of vehicle tracking data allows for improved, faster responses to issues faced by crews while servicing. The operational ‘picture’ has gained greater granularity with the introduction of fleet telematics (more on this below), as well as vehicle-based camera technology which adds further insights. AI is of course also becoming a part of the picture – more on this later.

Safety, Compliance and Efficiency

Telematics provides the data needed to help ensure safety and compliance and can assist in achieving maximum efficiency of the collection operation. This technology combines telecommunication with informatics – allowing for remote monitoring and management of vehicles. GPS, multiple sensors and other in-vehicle devices come together to provide real-time data such as location, speed, engine diagnostics and insights into driver behaviour.

This information allows local authority managers to make informed decisions around safe driving and operational optimisation. It also gives them the information they need to encourage responsible, fuel-efficient driving.

Accidents are typically caused by human error; pedestrians, domestic car drivers and collection crews - a few are also caused by RCV driver fatigue. Monitoring drivers’ braking, speed, and safety device alerts can reduce the chances of collisions and incidents, ensuring road safety for all.

As lower speed limits are being introduced in some areas of the UK, adapting to these changes is paramount. Telematics, combined with in-cab navigation solutions, can ensure drivers stay within speed limits, improving safety and compliance.

The ‘minimum touch’ principle (the philosophy upon with SmartSuite Mobile was developed) ensures safety and compliance by logging completed, serviced streets automatically, with no need for drivers to press a ‘street complete’ button. Furthermore, this in-cab navigation and service verification solution can, at just the right time for the driver, visually and audibly announce any service or turn instructions e.g. “assisted collection at number 22” or “turn left in 200 yards”, minimising the need for the driver to touch the device.

To ensure drivers using the device are kept within the law, the screen can be disabled when the vehicle is in motion, whilst the screen can be viewed and instructions still spoken out.

Smart Technology and AI

Smart technology and clever use of Artificial Intelligence can turn vehicles into rolling data centres. The combination of data capture and AI tech can provide valuable insight into what fleets are actually collecting (or not collecting), and why.

North America's largest recycler has equipped thousands of its collection trucks with cutting-edge technology. Cameras and specialised sensors scan the contents of bins and capture real-time video. These images are then sent to a centralised, AI-powered system identifies any overfilled containers or those not left in the right place for service, as well as contaminated bins.

“Contamination in the collection carts can slow the sorting of materials in the recycling chain or make regularly recyclable materials unsalvageable… the system emails customers their images along with educational information designed to deepen their understanding of what is and is not recyclable.

The expert guidance is intended to help customers make informed decisions when they fill their carts so additional and cleaner materials can be captured during the recycling process.”

The tech is reported to have reduced contamination occurrence during the pilot scheme by 20%.

Integrated Tech from Integrated Skills - Available Now

We’ve been shouting about the need for integrated solutions since our formation – hence the name. The key is to integrate software with vehicle hardware for maximum efficiency throughout the waste management, street cleansing and highway maintenance operation.

For example, we have clients that integrate data feeds from cameras, on-board sensors, bin sensors, telematics, salt spreaders and street cleansing brushes, GPS and route optimisation to streamline and boost efficiency.

Speaking of street cleansing - if streets don’t need sweeping, it’s important that the data can be provided to back-office. In contrast, if a street section is very dirty, it’s important that this be reported too. The back-office team can then review the frequency of cleans and resources can be shifted in response.

Being able to view real-time progress on sweeping routes and driver reports such as “Main Street - no access due to parked cars” is critical to managing services efficiently.

Integrated Skills’ game-changer is linking telematics to the live view - including “brushes up/down” and weed spraying activity. An impressive data archive is created that can be reviewed to understand what work was completed and how service efficiency and effectiveness can be improved.

Looking to the Future

With so much new technology becoming available, some companies are prepping to take things to the next level. For example, Volvo Group, together with Swedish waste specialist, Renova, are trialling self-driving trucks and pay-by-weight systems.

The scheme is exploring how automation can contribute to improved safety and working conditions, as well as a lowering environmental impact. From a reduction in common knee problems, to charging customers according to the weight of their refuse, this combination of integrated tech is a huge leap forward.

“There is amazing potential to transform the swift pace of technical developments in automation into practical benefits for customers and, more broadly, society in general. Our self-driving refuse truck is leading the way in this field globally, and one of several exciting autonomous innovations we are working with right now.” Lars Stenqvist, Chief Technology Officer at Volvo Group.

In summary, integrating vehicle-based technologies with waste management software results in improved cost control, eco-friendly practises, and prioritised employee and public safety – all through the clever integration of software and hardware.

Local Authorities will see a significant ROI if they spend their budgets wisely and realise the potential gained through the integration of technologies.

The post Intelligent Integration of Vehicle-Based Technology: Creating Maximum Impact for Local Authorities appeared first on Integrated Skills.

Street cleansing is an essential service that we’d certainly miss if councils dropped the ball. But it’s not the first service that springs to mind when we think of waste removal teams - recycling and general waste management is the more obvious thought. It’s easy to overlook, and that’s why we’re shedding some light on it today.

The street cleansing teams responsible for this work play a vital role in maintaining public health, safety, and environmental standards. They also assist in minimising the costs of street maintenance. Many councils are turning to electric vehicles to fulfil their duties in a more environmentally friendly manner - and Integrated Skills are poised to help.

Why Street Cleansing Matters

Street cleansing is more than a purely cosmetic effort to keep towns and cities looking appealing. It’s a cornerstone of public health and environmental care.

Unclean streets can lead to significant issues, including:

• Public Health Risks: Litter can attract vermin and harbour bacteria.
• Environmental Damage: Plastics and other debris on the streets can wash into waterways.
• Safety Concerns: Litter, such as broken glass or sharp objects, can pose physical hazards to pedestrians, cyclists and animals.
• Economic Costs: Areas with littered streets often deter tourists and businesses, reducing local economic growth.
• Unswept streets can create an environment for weed growth, - weeds which take hold and then need removal, or even worse, can root down into the structure and can weaken the fabric of the highway, leading to further costs.

Studies have also shown that residents feel safer in cleaner areas, and that clean streets perpetuate a desire to keep them that way. Well-kept streets lead to safer areas and residents that are more aware of keeping the area clean and well kept.

Challenges Faced by Street Cleansing Teams

According to the Government’s Code of Practice on Litter and Refuse, littering remains a persistent issue. Fast food packaging, cigarette butts, and discarded plastics are among the most common items found littering streets. The increase in single-use plastics and convenience culture has exacerbated the problem.

Budget cuts faced by local councils are impacting their ability to maintain street cleansing services. Limited funding often results in fewer staff, outdated equipment, and reduced frequency of cleaning. Public attitudes towards littering also create obstacles. Despite awareness campaigns and the threat of on-the-spot fines or even court action, many people continue to discard waste irresponsibly.

Street cleansing vehicles themselves can also contribute to air pollution and overall carbon emissions. However, innovations in eco-friendly technology are offering solutions. Cleaner and more energy-efficient road sweepers are becoming more readily available, as noted in a recent article by Government Business.

The Legal Framework

UK laws and guidelines to tackle litter issues and promote street cleanliness include:

• Environmental Protection Act 1990: This legislation places a duty on local authorities to ensure public spaces are kept free of litter and refuse.
• Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs): Littering is a criminal offence, and offenders can be fined on the spot. Fines act as a deterrent, but enforcement remains inconsistent. The severity of fines also fluctuates depending on the authority and circumstances of the offense. The range from £40 and £500 per ticket.
• Code of Practice on Litter and Refuse: This document provides practical guidance for maintaining street cleanliness. It sets standards for cleaning frequency and prioritisation based on the location’s usage.

Innovations in Street Cleansing

Despite the challenges, advancements in technology and practices are transforming street cleansing. Modern road sweepers now feature water-efficient systems, dust suppression mechanisms, and lower emissions. These machines not only clean more effectively but also align with environmental goals.

Additionally, data-driven approaches are gaining traction. Using GPS tracking and real-time reporting, councils can deploy resources more efficiently. Areas with high footfall or frequent littering can be prioritised, ensuring a targeted and cost-effective response.

While technology and regulation are essential, public participation is equally important. Campaigns like Keep Britain Tidy’s "Great British Spring Clean" encourage individuals and communities to take responsibility for their local environment. By fostering a culture of care and accountability, such initiatives can reduce the burden on street cleansing teams.

Education also plays a vital role. Teaching young people about the impact of littering can instil lifelong habits. Schools, local councils, and charities can collaborate to deliver engaging and informative programmes. We’ve heard of many councils inviting young school children to name new, eco-friendly sweepers, resulting in some fantastic suggestions such as Sir Sweepalot, Shaun the Sweep, and Sweepy McSweeperson.

While the fun in these strategies is apparent, they also lead to higher engagement from the community and a sense of collaboration in the next generation, who are increasingly eco-aware.

How Integrated Skills Can Help

Efficient routing is the key to keeping costs low, and our digital mapping data can be used to ensure that efficiency. From route planning to vehicle tracking, site location analysis to territory planning- this list goes on.

We’ve worked with many councils over the years, integrating the Ordnance Survey data available with the capabilities of our RouteSmart software. Our partnerships have resulted in massive financial savings, reduced carbon emissions and increased job satisfaction, as well as improved public opinion.

Our in-cab and back-office solution, SmartSuite, can provide Councils with the means to ensure that planned savings are realised. Our solution can mix both planned street sweeping work with ad-hoc tasks – such as fly-tipping removal and both with a full audit trail to ensure work is all completed and recorded.

Integrated Skills is also working with telematics providers to ensure that when streets are being serviced, there is an audit trail to ensure that there is evidence of when brushes are up and down.

For those switching to Electric Vehicle fleets, we can model the network coverage and routes for any future purchases or optimise the routes for your new vehicles as they enter the streets. We also provide in-cab solutions for all drivers to follow for maximum efficiency, whether they are established, seasonal or brand new.

Conclusion

Street cleansing is an essential yet often overlooked public service. Its impact on public health, the environment, and local economies cannot be overstated. However, challenges such as funding cuts, public behaviour, and climate considerations highlight the need for collective action.

By recognising the value of street cleansing, supporting innovative practices, and encouraging public engagement, we can ensure our streets remain clean and safe for everyone.

The post Street Cleansing: The Often Forgotten, Essential Service appeared first on Integrated Skills.