Organizing public spaces with both recycling and trash bins requires thoughtful planning to encourage proper waste disposal. The key is making it intuitive for people to do the right thing. Start by placing bins in high-traffic areas where people naturally accumulate waste - near entrances, seating areas, and walkways. Always position recycling and trash containers together in pairs or groups; separating them decreases participation rates significantly.
Use color-coding consistently - typically blue for recycling and black for trash - with clear, picture-based signage showing exactly what goes where. The labels should be simple, visible from multiple angles, and use both images and minimal text. For recycling bins, be specific about accepted materials to reduce contamination.
Consider the bin design itself. They should be durable, weather-resistant, and appropriately sized for the location. Lids with different shaped openings (circular for bottles, slots for paper) can guide proper sorting. In high-use areas, consider larger multi-stream stations with separate compartments for different materials.
Maintenance is crucial. Empty bins regularly to prevent overflow, which leads to littering. Monitor what people are actually putting in the bins and adjust signage or education if you notice consistent contamination. Finally, complement your physical setup with occasional awareness campaigns or simple instructions nearby to reinforce the system. When done well, a coordinated bin system keeps public spaces cleaner while significantly increasing recycling rates.