That's a great question! Yes, more and more cities are starting to use biodegradable or compostable bags in their public trash cans as part of broader sustainability efforts. It's not yet universal, but it's a growing trend, especially in forward-thinking municipalities and green spaces.
You'll often find these bags in parks, at outdoor events, and in designated "green" zones within cities. The bags are typically made from materials like cornstarch (PLA), PBAT, or other plant-based polymers designed to break down much faster than traditional plastic in industrial composting facilities.
The main goal is to reduce the long-term plastic pollution from the millions of liner bags used daily. When paired with proper organic waste collection, these bags can help divert food scraps and other compostables from landfills. However, a key challenge is public education—these bags need to end up in the right processing stream to decompose properly.
So, while your average street corner bin might not have one yet, the shift is definitely happening. Next time you're in a park, take a closer look at the bin liner; you might spot a "compostable" label!