Great question—this is one of those public-realm design problems where you want to reduce scavenging without turning the bin into a fortress. I’d start by removing the reward and making access awkward but still easy for ordinary users. A narrow, self-closing flap or a curved chute can stop people from reaching in, while internal baffles or anti-return flaps make it hard to fish items back out. Smooth, rounded exteriors with no ledges or footholds also remove places to stand, hook, or lever the bin open.
For higher-risk locations, use a locked service door and a tamper-resistant latch, so only collection staff can open the main body. Semi-underground or compactor bins are another strong option: they hold more waste, reduce visible loose rubbish, and are much harder to dig through. If budget allows, add fill-level and tilt sensors so crews respond before overflow—overflow is what usually attracts digging.
Think about the whole station, not just the bin. Put bins in well-lit, high-footage areas, anchor them securely, and combine them with clear recycling and bottle-return points. A separate, well-designed container for redeemable bottles can redirect scavenging into a safer behavior. Keep food waste sealed and avoid exposed bag liners. Signage should be simple and respectful, not accusatory.
One important caveat: don’t rely only on hostile design. If people are digging for bottles or food, they may be in financial distress. Pair the bins with outreach, deposit-return schemes, and local support services. The best setup makes waste handling cleaner and safer for everyone—residents, workers, and people who rely on informal recycling—without creating unnecessary harm.