That's a great observation! The colors of public trash bins aren't just for decoration; they're a silent, universal language for waste management. While there's no single global standard, common patterns have emerged worldwide.
Typically, blue bins are for recyclable materials like paper, cardboard, and sometimes metals/plastics. Green bins often collect general, non-recyclable waste. You'll frequently see brown or black bins for organic or food waste, destined for composting. For glass bottles and jars, dedicated white or clear bins are common in many European cities. Some places use yellow bins specifically for plastic and metal packaging.
The core purpose is visual sorting at the source. This simple color code makes it easier for people to dispose of items correctly before collection, which dramatically improves recycling rates and reduces contamination. It streamlines the process for municipal workers and recycling facilities.
However, the system can vary by city or country. A green bin in one place might be for general waste, while in another, it's for organics. The key is to look for symbols or text labels on the bin itself, which provide the definitive guide for that specific location.
So next time you're about to toss something, take a second to "read" the bin's color. It's a small act that collectively makes our cities cleaner and more sustainable.