That's a great and very common question! The short answer is: it depends, but often it's not ideal without some adjustments. While a standard outdoor trash can might hold recyclables in a pinch, using it properly for recycling requires a bit more thought.
The main issue is contamination. Recycling facilities need clean, sorted materials. If you toss plastic bottles into a can that previously held food waste, residue can ruin the entire batch. For casual home use, you *could* dedicate a specific, clean outdoor can for recyclables and clearly label it. This prevents mixing.
However, truly effective outdoor recycling usually involves purpose-built bins. Many public spaces and municipalities provide separate, color-coded bins (blue for recycling, green for compost, black for trash) with clear signage. These are designed for volume and easy collection.
If you're managing waste at a business or community space, check local regulations. Some areas require official bins. For your backyard, using a dedicated, labeled can with a liner works if you empty it regularly into your main recycling cart.
So, while the physical container *can* be used, the key is dedicated use, clear labeling, and ensuring contents follow your local recycling rules to avoid contaminating the recycling stream.