Case Study
Bates College

Overview
Campus Wide Waste & Recycling Bins
Max-R first partnered with Bates College in 2015 to design bins for the campus food service areas. After receiving their initial order, Bates College reached out with a unique need. They wanted a waste and recycle bin that had a funnel to help collect liquids.
Discovery
- Campus Wide Zero Waste Initiative Needed
- More Bins to Match Goals
- Liquid Capture Became Necessity
After the initial consultation and in order to make the goals set in place by Bates a reality, our ideation team went to work in conceiving the best solution to the pain points addressed.
Concept
In conjunction with the Bates’ Custodial Supervisor and Sustainability Coordinator, Max-R’s Engineering and Design team created a waste and recycle bin that would allow users to discard of their leftover liquids. The unique stream was designed to be a part of their standard bin, but the circle opening would connect to a funnel that emptied into a bucket inside of the bin, allowing for quick and clean servicing of the bin.

- Bins with Consistent Graphics and Colors Developed
- Liquid Capture Solution Developed
Visualization
Our design team crafted a 3D rendering with all of the desired customization. It was determined that Bates would provide its own messaging to be interchangeable within the header board. Once the configurations, graphics, and colors are approved by Bates, our engineering team drafted a functioning proof for final sign-off.


The Results
They speak for themselves, don’t they? With the inclusion of liquid capture, Bates was able to get closer to their Zero Waste goals.
Feeling Inspired?
Every brand has a different solution than the last, but don’t sweat it—our team will walk hand-in-hand with you to discover your sustainability pain points and how to overcome them.