An electromechanical, modular, single-column, trash compactor with a particularly small size and low weight. In particular, a trash compaction device which can be used on-board aircraft, trains, ships and/or for civil applications and generally in all the locations and/or transportation means where the auxiliary service equipment must occupy as little space as possible. The compaction device is formed by a system of hollow telescopic screws (5,6), for example of the recirculating ball type, operated by a motor (2) housed inside the said screws (5,6). The compactor may be conveniently installed in compartments, which are fixed or movable on wheels, such as a trolley, so as to allow easy displacement thereof within the transportation means and insertion within the appropriate working spaces.