You've probably noticed them everywhere – those public trash cans with frustratingly small round openings. It seems counterintuitive, right? Shouldn't a trash can be easy to use? The design is actually a carefully considered solution to several common urban problems.
The primary reason is to prevent scavenging. Larger openings allow people, and often animals like raccoons or stray dogs, to easily rummage through the garbage. This creates a huge mess, scattering litter far from the bin and defeating its purpose. The small opening acts as a physical barrier, restricting access to the bagged waste inside.
Secondly, it helps control the type and volume of waste. The design discourages people from disposing of oversized items like household bags, boxes, or construction debris, which quickly overflow the bin. It subtly encourages users to dispose of typical street litter like wrappers, cups, and small containers, keeping the bin functional for longer.
This design also improves hygiene and odor control. By limiting the exposure of the waste inside, it reduces the spread of smells and makes the area around the bin more pleasant. It can even slow down the filling rate in high-traffic areas, reducing maintenance frequency.
While it might require a moment of aim, this clever bit of "unpleasant design" or "hostile architecture" ultimately serves the public good by keeping our shared spaces cleaner and more orderly.