That's an excellent and very common question. From my experience living in the city and observing public spaces, I can say it's a bit more nuanced than a simple yes or no.
Wider openings on trash cans can definitely help, but they are not a complete solution on their own. The main idea is sound: if the opening is larger and more obvious, people are more likely to hit their target. It reduces the frustration of trying to stuff a coffee cup or a food wrapper into a small slot, which often leads to items being left on top or beside the bin. So, in that sense, yes, they can reduce immediate "around-the-bin" litter caused by poor aim or convenience.
However, the bigger problem often isn't the opening size—it's capacity and collection frequency. A bin with a wide opening will fill up much faster. When it's overflowing, the wider opening almost acts as a chute, creating a bigger mound of trash spilling out. This can actually make the visual problem worse. The real issue is often that bins are not emptied often enough to match the volume of waste in high-traffic areas.
Another critical factor is human behavior and education. Some people will litter regardless of bin design. The solution there involves consistent public messaging, convenient placement of bins, and fostering a community culture of cleanliness.
So, while wider openings are a good step in the right direction and should be part of modern bin design, they need to be paired with other strategies. The most effective approach combines smart design (like wider openings and sensible sizing), increased collection schedules in problem areas, and ongoing public awareness efforts. It's about making the right choice the easiest choice.