That's a great question! From my observations and discussions with campus facilities managers, the most popular type of urban trash can for college campuses isn't a single model, but a category defined by specific features that meet unique campus needs.
The reigning favorite is the dual-stream or multi-stream recycling and waste station. Campuses are deeply focused on sustainability goals, so bins that make sorting easy—with clear labels for landfill, commingled recycling, and sometimes organics—are everywhere. They're often housed in a sturdy, rectangular stainless steel or powder-coated steel body that withstands heavy use and weather. Brands like Bigbelly's solar-powered compacting stations are also hugely popular for high-traffic areas. Their smart sensors notify facilities teams when they're full, optimizing collection routes and reducing overflow.
The key features that make a trash can "popular" on campus are durability to handle constant use, clear signage to improve recycling compliance, a design that complements campus aesthetics (not an eyesore), and smart technology for efficiency. It's less about a specific brand and more about integrated systems that are functional, educational, and robust enough for thousands of students.