This week, Walt Disney World Resort introduced a new style of trash cans at EPCOT as part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability. However, the new “Big Belly” trash compactors, which are solar-powered and designed to compact trash, have sparked concerns among guests, particularly regarding the loss of impromptu dining spaces within the park.
The new trash cans, which have been spotted in areas like the Germany Pavilion and the American Adventure Pavilion, are reportedly part of a test rollout, with some guests noting that these models might eventually expand to other areas of the resort. The compactors are engineered to be more efficient, with built-in solar panels that help reduce waste and provide real-time notifications to custodial workers when the bins are full. This feature minimizes the need for frequent checks and bag changes, which makes them a more effective solution for waste management.
Concerns Over Loss of Dining Spaces
While the trash cans’ efficiency is applauded, many visitors have expressed disappointment over the loss of valuable seating options. The sloped tops of these compactors make them less usable as makeshift tables—a popular practice among visitors in high-traffic areas where seating can be scarce. Guests often rely on trash cans as impromptu dining spots, and the new design has led to frustration, especially for those who have relied on these spaces to eat or rest during their park visit.
One Reddit user shared their thoughts, stating:
“Can’t wait for the complaints to roll in. These are Big Belly trash compactors. They are solar powered and are far more efficient than regular trash cans because they compact the trash! They even send notifications when they are getting full, so custodial workers don’t have to be constantly checking or changing trash bags. Biggest con: removal of lots of EPCOT dining tables.
Can't wait for the complaints to roll in.
byu/th3thrilld3m0n inWaltDisneyWorld
A Shift Toward Efficiency and Sustainability
The new compactors are part of Disney’s broader efforts to implement more sustainable and efficient waste management systems across the resort. By reducing the need for manual checks and bag changes, the solar-powered trash cans save time and help the park reduce its environmental footprint. Despite the positive environmental impact, the design change has left some visitors questioning whether this shift is worth the inconvenience of losing dining tables that were once easily created by well-placed trash cans.
For many guests, the loss of these dining spots has been a disappointment. The park’s limited seating options can often make it difficult for guests to find a place to enjoy a meal, and some see the absence of these informal dining tables as an additional inconvenience.
Can't wait for the complaints to roll in.
byu/th3thrilld3m0n inWaltDisneyWorld
What’s Next for EPCOT’s Waste Management System?
As the new Big Belly trash compactors are still being tested at EPCOT, it remains unclear whether this shift in waste management will be adopted more widely across the park. Disney has yet to officially comment on the long-term plans for these new trash cans or if the older models will be reintroduced to accommodate dining needs.
The introduction of these new trash cans may signal a more sustainable future for Disney parks, but it also raises important questions about balancing innovation with guest comfort. While sustainability and efficiency are critical, Disney may need to consider how these changes impact the guest experience, particularly when it comes to the availability of places for visitors to relax and enjoy their meals.
For now, visitors to EPCOT will have to adjust to the new waste management system, which has already sparked both support and criticism. The future of EPCOT’s trash cans will depend on feedback from guests and how Disney responds to the concerns raised by this shift in design.
