That's a really interesting and practical question. The idea of using trash cans with smaller openings to deter illegal dumping of large bags of waste is something many cities have considered or even tried. The theory is sound: if the opening isn't big enough to fit a standard large garbage bag, people are less likely to attempt to dispose of their household or commercial waste in public bins meant for pedestrian litter.
From my observation and reading on urban design, this approach can be part of a solution, but it's rarely a complete fix on its own. In some areas, specially designed bins with narrow slots or openings have shown a reduction in the volume of illegally dumped large items. It forces individuals to reconsider and ideally use proper disposal services.
However, there are significant trade-offs. A major downside is that it also discourages legitimate use for common larger litter items, like empty cardboard coffee cup carriers or small food packaging. It can lead to more litter being placed *beside* the bin, creating a different kind of mess. Furthermore, determined dumpers might simply leave bags on top of or next to the can, negating the benefit.
A truly effective strategy usually combines this physical design element with other measures. This includes consistent and visible enforcement (fines for illegal dumping), providing convenient and affordable legal disposal options for residents and businesses, and ensuring regular emptying schedules to prevent overflow. The bin design itself must also be robust to resist tampering or damage from frustrated individuals.
So, while smaller openings can be a useful tool in a city's waste management toolkit to *discourage* the behavior, they work best as part of a broader, multi-faceted approach to maintaining clean public spaces. It's about making the right choice (proper disposal) easier than the wrong one.