That's an excellent question! When it comes to standard urban trash bins, you'll typically find them in a few common colors, though this can vary by city and even by country. The most universal color is probably dark green or black for general, mixed waste. These are the workhorses for everyday trash.
You'll also frequently see bright blue bins designated specifically for recycling materials like paper, cardboard, and sometimes plastics and cans. This blue has become a widely recognized signal for recycling.
In many modern cities, you might also encounter brown or green bins for organic or garden waste, helping to divert compostable materials from landfills. Some municipalities use gray bins as an alternative for general waste.
The move towards specific colors isn't just for aesthetics; it's a key part of waste management systems. This color-coding helps residents quickly identify the correct bin for different types of waste, which significantly improves recycling rates and reduces contamination in recycling streams. So, while the exact palette might differ, the colors are chosen with purpose!