Yes, absolutely! Many modern cities have embraced specialized public trash bins that feature separate compartments for different types of waste. These dual-stream or multi-compartment bins are becoming increasingly common in parks, downtown areas, and public spaces.
You'll typically find these bins with clear labeling - one side for landfill waste and another for recyclables like plastic bottles, aluminum cans, and paper products. Some advanced models even have three separate sections: one for general trash, one for mixed recyclables, and sometimes a third for organic waste.
Cities like San Francisco, Seattle, and New York have implemented these separated bins as part of their sustainability initiatives. The design helps reduce contamination in recycling streams, making the recycling process more efficient. Many feature color-coded lids (blue for recycling, black for trash) and include universal symbols to guide proper disposal.
Recent innovations include solar-compacting bins that alert sanitation crews when full, and "smart" bins with educational displays about what items belong in each compartment. While availability varies by location, the trend toward compartmentalized public bins continues to grow as urban areas prioritize waste management solutions.