Binners’ Project launches the long-anticipated Universal Carts Initiative

The Binners’ Project is a Vancouver-based social enterprise and advocacy group dedicated to empowering binners—individuals who collect recyclable containers and other items to sustain their livelihoods. The project aims to improve economic opportunities for these workers while reducing the social stigma they face.

The Binner’s Project Universal Carts Initiative was inspired by the need within the binner community for a cart-sharing system that supports varying physical capabilities, fosters economic opportunities and further supports recycling efforts within our city. In development since 2016, Binners’ Project is now launching the long-anticipated Universal Cart program.

With input from more than 100 Vancouver binners, the Universal Carts have been designed and purpose-built for binning. Modelled after a bike-sharing system, the carts are stationed at several docking stations and can be accessed by binners as needed. Once signed up for the program, binners access the carts via custom voice recognition technology. The program is free to use, with a mandatory orientation that ensures participants understand how to operate the system and safely connect the bike trailer attachment. The Universal Carts Initiative includes paid roles for binners with lived and living experience to coordinate and manage the carts, providing meaningful work and skill development.

In addition to providing a grant, Central City Foundation was instrumental in bringing together funders to help support this initiative. “Central City Foundation has been a long-time supporter of the Universal Cart Initiative from its initial development stage,” said Sean Miles, Director of Binners’ Project. “And we are so grateful for the support of innovative and forward-thinking funders like CCF.”

When you support Central City Foundation, you help fund many important community-led solutions, such as the Binners’ Project.

Editor’s Note: Pictured above is Michael Leland demonstrating the Universal Cart prototype at the launch press conference in 2018. Binners’ Project is sad to share that dear friend and “binner #1,” Michael, passed away in March of this year, at the age of 67. Michael was a leader, storyteller and fighter and will always remain the foundation for what Binners’ Project has become today: resilience personified in the commitment to keep showing up, no matter what. Read the full tribute and watch a video celebrating Michael’s life on the Binners’ Project website.