That's a great question that cities worldwide grapple with. There's no one-size-fits-all answer, as both approaches have strong merits depending on the context.
Having many small bins, placed frequently along a sidewalk, offers great convenience. People are less likely to litter if a bin is always in sight. This can significantly reduce casual littering in high-foot-traffic areas like shopping districts or tourist spots. The downside? They fill up quickly and require frequent, labor-intensive emptying. If not serviced often, they overflow, creating an even bigger eyesore and hygiene issue.
On the other hand, installing fewer, larger capacity bins can be more efficient for municipal operations. Collection trucks make fewer stops, saving on fuel, labor, and time. Large bins are also better for handling bulkier waste items. The risk is that if people have to walk too far to find one, they might simply drop their trash on the ground. This "out of sight, out of mind" problem can lead to littering between bin locations.
The smartest solution often lies in a hybrid, data-driven approach. Many modern cities use sensors to monitor fill-levels in larger, strategically placed bins, enabling efficient "just-in-time" collection. The key is understanding pedestrian flow: dense areas need more frequent, smaller collection points, while quieter streets can manage with larger, spaced-out bins. Ultimately, the best system balances human convenience with operational sustainability to keep our streets clean.