That's a great question that gets to the heart of practical city living. There isn't a single perfect answer, as it involves a balance between public convenience and municipal efficiency. Let's break down the pros and cons of each approach.
Having many small bins along a block is fantastic for pedestrian convenience. It encourages proper disposal by making a bin always within sight, reducing littering. This leads to visibly cleaner sidewalks instantly. However, this model requires more frequent emptying by collection crews, increasing labor, fuel costs, and vehicle emissions. The bins themselves also fill up quickly during peak times, potentially leading to overflow if not serviced constantly.
On the other hand, installing fewer but larger centralized bins can streamline operations significantly. Collection trucks make fewer stops, saving time and resources. The larger capacity means they are less prone to immediate overflow. The downside is the "out of sight, out of mind" effect for pedestrians. If someone has to carry trash for a long distance, they are more likely to litter. This can create localized messes around the few bins that do exist, as people might leave bags beside an already full container.
The ideal solution likely lies in a smart hybrid model. Many cities are now using data to place medium-capacity bins in high-traffic "hot spots" like bus stops or cafe areas, with fewer bins in quieter sections. The key is consistent and reliable emptying schedules—a small, overflowing bin is worse than a large, well-maintained one. Ultimately, the best system is one that is easy for the public to use and cost-effective for the city to maintain, fostering a shared responsibility for clean streets.