That's an excellent question that more cities should be considering! The plastic used in most modern urban trash cans does typically include UV protection, though the level can vary significantly between manufacturers and municipal budgets.
UV protection is crucial for outdoor trash containers because without it, plastic becomes brittle and cracks when constantly exposed to sunlight. Most quality public bins incorporate either UV-resistant plastic formulations or special protective coatings that act as "sunscreen" for the material. This protection helps prevent the fading, warping, and structural damage you might have noticed in older public bins where the plastic appears discolored or develops cracks.
The specific UV protection method depends on the bin's quality tier. Higher-end models use compounded UV inhibitors throughout the plastic material itself, while more economical options might rely on protective surface coatings. Both approaches significantly extend the lifespan of public bins, though integrated UV protection tends to last longer since it doesn't wear off over time.
So while you can generally assume your city's newer trash cans have some level of UV protection, the quality and longevity of that protection ultimately depends on the specific products your municipality selected and their replacement schedule for aging street furniture.