I have the Eco Lifestyle XP, all expansion packs, all stuff packs, and all game packs. I have never used mods or CC in my game. This happens to all worlds except the large trash bins in Port Promise. My sim's lot has the recycle and reuse trait.
The only way I can use the large trash bins at the community lot in the other neighborhoods in the eco lifestyle world is to set the community lot traits to have both of the lots traits, (recycle and landfill) that allow the large trash bins to be rummaged in.
All trash bins in other worlds can't be rummaged in. Every new game I have to play in Port Promise to be able to rummage in the trash bins and only the large trash bins work. My sim's lots always has the recycle lot traits. If I play in another world I have to hang out for a long while in Port Promise to only be able to either dumpster dive or collect componenets, etc. once.
Possible workaround: I put a dumpster in my backyard and gave my lot the recycle trait and promptly removed all other trash bins so ONLY the dumpster would be used. Then I stuck a recycler next to it. Ever since then my SIM eats, I put the plate in the dumpster, and get anywhere from 1-3 dives for recyclables. Sure, the dumpster is a tacky look, but I want those bits and pieces! I admittedly feed my guests when I need social for their plates. Hahaha. My SIM is fed, her social goes up, and then I get even more dives to keep her job as a freelance maker going. 😉 Plus I feel like a good host because I come from a family where if someone comes over, even to hang out, a lunch or dinner must be provided along with a variety of drinks to choose from. It's only good manners! *giggles*
To be fair to me though, I'd been making food and calling guests to the meal since I started playing because it is so ingrained in me that if someone drops by to hang out food should be involved. So honestly the discovery of an extra plate means extra dumpster dives was a happy coincidence. One I was very happy to discover. So mind those old fashioned manners, feed your guests, and fill up more than just your hunger and social! Just remember not to get so excited you leave your guest hanging because the dumpster is calling to you now that there are plates in it. Hahaha.
I do notice all the other options like diving for deals after I put a plate in, so you will get your full range. I just focused on the recycling because of her job.
adding the trait "Freegan" will help to improve those dumpster diving quality better! what has The Sims become. lol
