Yes, many modern cities are implementing trash cans with smaller openings as an effective strategy to discourage improper disposal of large items. These specially designed receptacles feature openings typically 6-8 inches in diameter, making it physically impossible to dispose of oversized trash like pizza boxes, bags of household garbage, or construction debris. This clever design addresses a common urban problem where public bins were frequently misused as dumping sites for domestic waste, leading to overflow and increased maintenance costs.
The small opening approach represents a shift in urban planning philosophy - instead of simply providing more bins, cities are focusing on smarter design that guides proper usage. These restricted-opening bins successfully encourage people to dispose of smaller, appropriate items like coffee cups, food wrappers, and drink containers while naturally deterring inappropriate dumping. The result is cleaner public spaces, reduced contamination of recyclable materials, and more efficient waste collection routes.
Many municipalities have reported significant improvements after installing these targeted-design bins in parks, downtown areas, and transportation hubs. The reduced opening size, combined with clear signage about proper use, has decreased contamination rates by up to 40% in some cities. This simple yet effective design solution demonstrates how thoughtful urban infrastructure can positively influence public behavior while maintaining clean, attractive public spaces for everyone to enjoy.