That's a great and practical question! Dealing with a broken public trash bin is a common urban dilemma. Here’s the best way to handle it, as these bins are municipal property.
First and foremost, do not try to dispose of it yourself in regular household trash or recycling. Your responsibility is to report it to the proper authorities. The fastest way is to contact your city's municipal waste management department or public works department. Most cities have a dedicated phone line, a mobile app, or an online form for reporting damaged public infrastructure like this. Provide the exact location (e.g., corner of Main St. and 5th Ave) and a brief description of the damage.
Are they recyclable? Often, yes, but it's not a curbside process. Standard urban bins are typically made from durable plastics (like HDPE) and metals (steel bands, hinges). These materials are recyclable. However, because they are large, heavy, and potentially hazardous if broken, they require special handling. The municipal crew that collects the bin will transport it to a facility where it can be properly dismantled. The metal parts will be sent to a scrapyard, and the plastic components may be shredded and recycled into new plastic products, depending on local facilities.
In summary: 1) Report it to your city's waste management/public works. 2) Let the professionals handle the removal and recycling. This ensures safety, proper recycling, and a prompt replacement, keeping your neighborhood clean.