That's a great question, and something I've wondered myself when out and about. In my experience, yes, it's becoming increasingly common to see a dedicated public recycling bin placed right next to a general waste trash can, especially in places like parks, downtown streets, transit stations, and outside public buildings.
This setup is often called a "waste station" or "dual bin system." The idea is to make recycling just as convenient as throwing something away. You'll usually find clear labels or different colored lids—blue is common for recycling, black or gray for landfill trash. The recycling side typically accepts items like plastic bottles, aluminum cans, and clean paper.
The main goal is to "capture" recyclable materials before they get tossed into the general waste stream. When bins are paired together, people are more likely to pause for a second and sort their item. It's a simple but effective nudge toward better sustainability practices in public spaces.
However, it's not universal. In some older areas or less-funded locations, you might still find only a single trash bin. The trend, though, is definitely moving toward providing both options side-by-side to reduce contamination and increase recycling rates. So next time you're finishing a drink on a park bench, look for that second bin right next to the trash—it's probably there waiting for your bottle or can.