That's an excellent and very practical question! Yes, many modern urban trash cans are specifically designed with features to combat wind-blown litter, which is a major concern for city cleanliness and maintenance. Here are some common features you'll find:
First, many bins now come with weighted bases or can be anchored to the ground. This prevents them from tipping over in strong gusts, which is the primary cause of scattered waste. The lids are also crucial. You'll see designs with spring-loaded, self-closing lids or rotating "dome" tops that only open when pressure is applied. These close automatically after use, blocking the wind from entering and pulling out lightweight items like paper or plastic bags.
Another smart feature is the internal baffle or wind screen. This is often a mesh or perforated panel inside the opening. It allows you to drop trash in but disrupts wind flow, preventing it from creating an upward draft that can lift litter back out. The shape of the opening itself matters, too. Aerodynamic, downward-facing openings are much more effective than large, open tops.
Finally, some high-tech or "smart" bins even use compactors. Once trash is deposited, it gets compressed, taking up less space and making it much harder for wind to dislodge. So, while no bin is 100% litter-proof in a storm, these engineered features—weighted bases, smart lids, internal baffles, and compactors—work together to significantly reduce wind-blown litter and keep our public spaces cleaner.