Yes—they absolutely exist, and they’re pretty common in cities that are trying to make recycling easier in public spaces. You’ll usually see them as dual-stream or multi-stream public bins: one opening for general waste and another for recyclables, sometimes with separate slots for cans, bottles, or paper. Some models even have color-coded lids, clear labels, and separate liners inside so staff can empty each stream without mixing everything together.
If you’re shopping for one, focus on how the compartments are separated in real use. A good urban bin should have distinct openings, clear signage, and removable inner buckets so collection crews can empty them quickly. Look for weather-resistant materials like powder-coated steel, aluminum, or heavy-duty plastic, plus features such as lockable doors, rain hoods, and feet or anchors for windy sidewalks. For high-traffic areas, you may also want a compacting or high-capacity option so the recycling side doesn’t overflow.
One thing to check: not every “recycling bin” truly keeps waste separate. Some are just one container with two openings, which can lead to contamination. Ask whether the inner liners are independent and whether the labels match your local recycling rules. If you need a specific look for a street, park, campus, or transit stop, many manufacturers offer customizable colors, graphics, and lid configurations. So yes, they exist—just choose one with genuinely separate compartments and a design that fits your collection system.