That's an excellent and practical question for managing a busy transit area. Honestly, the choice between several small bins and one large one isn't just about capacity—it's about human behavior and operational efficiency.
From my experience observing high-traffic stops, I generally lean towards recommending several strategically placed, small-to-medium bins over a single large one. Here’s why: convenience is king. A person rushing to catch a bus or train won't go out of their way to find a bin. If a bin is right where they pause—near benches, exits, or popular waiting spots—they'll use it. Multiple bins reduce litter by meeting people where they are.
A single large bin often becomes an "out of sight, out of mind" problem. It can create a hotspot for overflow, especially if it's not emptied frequently enough. When one massive bin overflows, the visual impact is terrible and encourages more littering around it. Several smaller bins distribute the waste load. If one fills up, the others are likely still available, and the overall area looks tidier.
However, the critical factor is maintenance. Multiple bins require more collection points, which might increase labor time for cleaners. A single large bin is quicker to service. So, your decision hinges on the cleaning schedule. If you have frequent, reliable emptying rounds, multiple small bins are superior for litter control. If emptying is infrequent, one large bin might contain more volume before overflowing, but the litter problem around it could be worse.
My advice? Conduct a quick audit. Map where litter naturally accumulates or where people congregate. Place smaller bins precisely there. Use durable, clearly marked bins. The goal is to make the right choice—disposing of trash—the easiest choice for every hurried commuter.