Automaton

From my brief time in Philly, a certain level of automation has struck me. These were not, generally speaking, never before seen types of things - but it was striking how ubiquitous they were. I think I only entered one bathroom without automatic water faucets and automatic soap dispensers and many also added automatic paper towel reels. Even Independence Hall, arguably the birthplace of our nation, has automatically opening doors (not a Ben Franklin invention)

Now I was puzzled as to the origin of this automation, but I think it is part of a green movement in Philly. The new piece of technology for me was the solar trash compactor - seen here with recycle bin - on many a street corner. Here we see green technology keeping the city clean and probably saving some money.