That's a fantastic question, and getting it right is key to making city recycling and composting programs actually work. The best way to label different bins is to make it impossible to misunderstand, even for someone in a hurry.
First, use pictures, not just words. A universal icon for trash (like a crossed-out wheelie bin), for recycling (the chasing arrows), and for compost (a leaf or an apple core) is understood across languages. Pair these with simple, bold text: "LANDFILL," "RECYCLABLES," or "COMPOST."
Color is your silent partner. Stick to common conventions if you can: black or gray for trash, blue for recycling, and green for compost. This creates instant visual sorting before anyone even reads the label.
Be specific about what goes where. Instead of just "Recycling," use sub-labels or images showing "Plastic Bottles & Jugs," "Paper & Cardboard," and "Cans." For compost, clarify "Food Scraps & Yard Waste" and explicitly state "No Plastic." For trash, a short "All Other Waste" works.
Finally, place labels directly on the lid and the front of the bin at eye level. Consistency is crucial—use the same system on every bin set across the city to build public habit. This combination of clear icons, color, specific instructions, and consistent placement dramatically reduces contamination and boosts participation.