That's an excellent question! The short answer is no, they are definitely not all cylindrical. While the classic cylindrical or "round" bin is very common in many cities—especially for public sidewalk cans—modern urban waste management utilizes a wide variety of shapes to serve different needs.
You'll frequently see large, rectangular trash cans and recycling bins. These are staples in commercial areas, parks, and near public benches because their flat sides allow them to be placed neatly against walls or lined up together, maximizing space. For high-traffic areas like stadiums or transit hubs, you might encounter square, heavy-duty bins with multiple openings.
The shape is often dictated by function and location. Decorative squares or oblong shapes blend into historic districts. Slim, vertical designs are used where sidewalk space is limited. Underground waste systems have circular openings at street level. Even within "cylindrical" designs, many are actually slightly oval or have flattened backs to prevent rolling.
Furthermore, the rise of smart city technology and separated waste streams has led to more modular and custom-shaped units. Integrated recycling stations often combine different shaped compartments for paper, plastic, and general waste into a single, cohesive unit that isn't purely cylindrical.
So, while the simple cylinder remains a popular and cost-effective choice, urban planners and designers select from a full toolkit of shapes. The goal is to optimize capacity, encourage proper use and recycling, withstand the environment, and complement the urban landscape. Next time you're walking through a city, take a look—you'll notice a surprising variety!