That's an excellent and increasingly important question about urban sustainability. The answer, like many things in waste management, is: it's complicated. Generally speaking, the plastic used in most public trash bins is technically recyclable. It's typically a durable, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene, both of which are common, recyclable plastics.
However, the "recyclable" label doesn't guarantee it will be recycled. Several major challenges stand in the way. First is contamination. Public bins collect a messy mix of waste, and this heavily soiled plastic is often rejected by recycling facilities. The cost of cleaning it is prohibitive. Second, these bins are built to last for years, often incorporating UV stabilizers and colorants that can complicate the recycling process. A bright green bin, for instance, cannot be easily turned into a new, clear plastic product.
Furthermore, the logistics are difficult. Decommissioned bins are large and bulky, making transportation to a specialized recycling center expensive. Many municipalities simply don't have a dedicated collection and processing system for them.
So, while the material itself has recycling potential, the current system often leads to these bins being landfilled. The best course of action is to contact your local public works or waste management department to inquire about their specific policies for end-of-life public infrastructure. The future likely lies in designing bins for easier disassembly and cleaner material streams, moving us closer to a truly circular system for urban furniture.