That's a great question! From my observations and conversations with facilities managers, the most popular style isn't a single type, but a combination focused on durability, sustainability, and smart functionality.
The clear frontrunner is the dual-stream or multi-stream recycling and waste station. These are typically made from heavy-gauge, powder-coated steel or robust stainless steel to withstand high traffic and weather. They feature clearly labeled, color-coded apertures for landfill waste, mixed recyclables, and sometimes compost. Their popularity stems from universities' strong emphasis on waste diversion and sustainability goals.
A close second is the growing adoption of solar-powered trash compactors. While a larger initial investment, they are hugely popular for high-traffic areas like quads, dining halls, and stadiums. Their "smart" benefit is that they compact waste, signaling when full, which reduces collection trips by up to 80%, saving on labor and fuel costs—a major operational win.
For general use, domed-top or round-bodied bins made from recycled plastic or metal remain staples. The domed top prevents littering and rainwater accumulation. The shift is toward designs that are bolted-down or weighted to prevent tipping and are easy to clean.
Ultimately, the most popular "style" is a modular, vandal-resistant system that promotes recycling, integrates with campus aesthetics (often through custom color panels or school logo decals), and reduces long-term operational burdens. It's less about a single bin and more about a coordinated, sustainable waste management strategy.