It depends on where you live, but generally you leave stuff out the front if you want to get rid of it (fridges, freezers, ovens, mattresses, sofas etc) - either officially, by arranging a “bulky goods” collection from the council, or waiting for someone who wants/needs it to take it. Large appliances generally get picked up by “rag and bone” men who weigh the metal in for scrap.

Remember that a large chunk of urban population don’t drive at all, and the majority that do drive small vehicles for short journeys - so not many people can take stuff like that to a recycling centre themselves.