Environmental Protection. Bins. Use of English B1+

Once upon a time, bins were large, heavy, metal objects which were difficult to lift and carry. They were made .. one long metal sheet, joined along its longest edge, with a circular metal base.

They had two handles, one of which dustmen would use to lift them and swing them onto their shoulders, showing little care for … , or for their own physical well-being.

As soon as plastic bins became … , these took over from the old metal ones. They were similar in appearance and weight, but were harder to damage or dent.

However, … of plastic, they were not suitable for hot waste, such as ashes, as these destroyed their interiors.

Currently, in many parts of the world, the standard bin … by the wheelie bin.

These are large, rectangular, plastic boxes on wheels, with a … lid and a bar which allows the bin to be pushed or pulled along.

Most wheelie bins are black, but some are green, brown or red. They … to be just as spacious as the old bins, as well as being easier to move around and less likely to cause injuries.

Many local councils insist that bins are left at the side of the road for collection, and for many people, … one of the old bins from the back garden to the front of the house was enough to cause serious muscle damage.

No matter how well-designed a bin may be, … , there will always be problems.

Wheelie bins are unattractive and can also be difficult to … up and down steps.

What is more, if you are unfortunate enough to drop something in the bottom of one of them, you will have a hard time … it out again, as the bins are about four feet tall.

Nevertheless, they are certainly a step up, and give us hope that, perhaps one day, someone … a truly trouble-free bin.