That's a fantastic question that gets into the nitty-gritty of urban design! There's no single "better" choice universally, as it depends heavily on the specific context and priorities of the street corner. Let's break down the pros and cons of each.
Round trash cans offer distinct advantages. Their curved shape has no sharp corners, making them safer in high-pedestrian areas and easier for people to navigate around. They are also less prone to having debris get stuck in corners, which can simplify cleaning. Aesthetically, their softer profile can blend well into organic or historic street layouts. However, their main drawback is space efficiency. A round can occupies more footprint for the same internal volume compared to a square one, which is a critical factor on a cramped sidewalk.
Square or rectangular bins are champions of space optimization. They can be tucked neatly against a wall or lined up side-by-side, maximizing capacity in a minimal footprint. This makes them ideal for high-traffic corners where waste generation is high. Their flat sides are also easier to brand or attach informational signage to. The downside? Those sharp corners can be hazardous, and they can create little pockets where trash gets lodged, potentially requiring more meticulous cleaning.
So, which is better? For a busy, space-constrained intersection where volume is key, a square bin might win. For a plaza or park pathway where pedestrian flow and safety are paramount, a round design could be superior. The smartest solution often considers both: using square bins for high-capacity, fixed locations and round ones for areas with fluid pedestrian movement. Ultimately, the best trash can is the one that is appropriately sized, frequently serviced, and intuitively placed for the people using that corner every day.