That's an excellent question about a detail many people overlook! Modern urban trash cans are actually engineered specifically to withstand UV exposure. Most high-quality public bins use materials like HDPE (high-density polyethylene) or polypropylene that contain UV stabilizers mixed right into the polymer during manufacturing. These additives act like sunscreen, absorbing and scattering ultraviolet radiation before it can break down the plastic's molecular structure.
Many municipalities now specify bins with UV-inhibiting pigments too—these aren't just surface colors but pigments that resist spectral breakdown. Some models even feature a protective coating that creates a barrier against UV rays, moisture, and pollutants. While no material is completely fade-proof forever, these engineered solutions typically maintain color integrity and structural strength for 5-10 years in direct sunlight. The next time you see a brightly colored public bin that still looks relatively new, you're actually looking at some thoughtful material science at work!