That's a great question that makes you look at the cityscape a little differently! If you take a mental walk through most downtown areas in North America and many parts of Europe, you'll likely notice one color standing out for public trash receptacles: a dark, forest, or hunter green.
It's not a random choice. This specific shade of green has become the unofficial standard for several practical reasons. First and foremost, it's highly visible against common urban backdrops like concrete, glass, and asphalt, making it easy for pedestrians to spot. Yet, unlike brighter colors, it's considered "dignified" and tends to blend with park settings and historic districts more gracefully than, say, bright orange or yellow. It effectively conceals minor scuffs and dirt, maintaining a cleaner appearance for longer between servicing. From a psychological standpoint, green is universally associated with nature, cleanliness, and recycling, subtly reinforcing public cooperation with waste disposal.
While green is the dominant player, you will see variations. Black is popular for its sleek, modern look in very commercial districts, and dark brown is sometimes chosen for a more natural, rustic aesthetic. Bright blue is increasingly reserved specifically for recycling bins to create a clear color-coded system. But for the standard, catch-all public litter bin, that classic dark green remains the most popular and practical choice for city planners worldwide.