Hubbub tackles growing litter problem with launch of Big Ballot Bin following KFC trial
A new bin, that was first trialled in 2023, is being launched today by environmental charity Hubbub.
The Big Ballot Bin aims to help venues transform litter management into a playful and shareable experience by inviting people to vote with their rubbish. This was first trialled in artnership with KFC.
Whether the question is, Who should have won? Traitors or Faithfuls, or who will get Christmas number 1 “K-Pop Demon Hunters or Wham?” the bins are designed to capture attention and spark conversation, while delivering cuts to waste and clean up costs. Operators can add branding, bespoke colours, and campaign messaging.
Alex Robinson, CEO at Hubbub, says: “The Big Ballot Bin shows what happens when you make the right choice the fun choice. Traditional enforcement often fails to change behaviour, but when you invite people to take part in something playful and topical, littering drops dramatically.”
“We’ve seen how curiosity, conversation and competition can transform a simple act like binning rubbish into a moment people enjoy and remember. For venues and destinations, it’s proof that positive engagement can deliver real environmental impact.”
Each bin comes equipped with a remote tracking system that allows operators to monitor the vote count and collect valuable data for ESG and CSR reporting. The plug and play design aims to bring reliability both indoors and outdoors, while a 240-litre capacity makes it ideal for busy shopping centres, theme parks and stadiums.
The Big Ballot Bin was trialled on UK high streets through an eight-week pilot with KFC, Manchester City Council and Southampton City Council. The results showed that litter was reduced within 20 metres of each bin, with drinks litter down 70% and food litter down 60%, while the capture radius was 2.5 times larger than standard offerings.
Hubbub is now inviting organisations across the leisure, hospitality, and attractions sectors to become early adopters. Partners will get preferential pricing and access to a full support package, including full creative customisation (branding, colours, and messaging), access to the smart tracker, and communications collaboration.
Robinson adds: “When we first trialled the Big Ballot Bin, we were blown away by how much attention they received - they really got people talking and we had fun creating voting options that tapped into current trends and discussions.”
“We’re thrilled to now bring this product to market and we look forward seeing our future customers create memorable experiences for visitors and be part of a nationwide movement to tackle litter in smarter ways.”
2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS
Green retail was a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.
We received a record number of entries and many fantastic examples of the continued resilience and dynamism of the retail space during hugely challenging times.
For a full rundown of all of the shortlisted entries, click here.
Our 2025 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The HAC in Central London on 16th October and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by award winning comedian, actress and writer Tiff Stevenson.
In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “This is the awards’ fifth year as a physical event. We started off with just 30 people at the South Place Hotel not far from here, then moved to London Bridge Hotel, then The Barbican, and last year RIBA’s HQ in the West End.”
“But I’m conscious of the fact that, to quote the legend that is Taylor Swift, You’re only as hot as your last hit, baby. So, this year we’ve moved to our biggest venue yet, and also pulled in our largest number of entries to date and broken attendance records.”
He added: “This year’s submissions have without doubt been our best yet. To quote one of the judges: The examples of innovative developments across both traditional and digital retail spaces were truly remarkable.”
Congratulations to our winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Tiff Stevenson, and all those who attended our 2025 gathering.
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