Japan tests mobile robotic rubbish bins at Shinjuku Station

Three automated waste collection bins are being tested at Shinjuku Station, a bustling transportation hub where over 2.7 million passengers travel each day. Standing just over a meter tall and moving at a slow 20 centimeters per second, these robots can swiftly navigate around people. The trial, which began on September 8 and will continue until November 20, takes place on weekdays from 10:00 to 17:00 at the first basement-level concourse.

Operated by East Japan Railway, the initiative aims to address the challenges of maintaining cleanliness and security in a setting where fixed bins have been reduced and traditional bins are emptied manually more than ten times daily. The robots follow pre-programmed circular paths between ticket gates to gather general waste and plastic bottles, returning autonomously to a collection point once full.

Japan Railway is testing the robots to not only assist human workers but also to evaluate commuter acceptance and safe navigation through the busy underground environment. While some passengers appreciate the innovative concept, tourists have taken notice of the robots' distinctive large googly eyes and train-themed design, featuring the station's mascot, Shinjukuma.