That's a really thoughtful question that more people should be asking! When you stop to think about it, we encounter public trash bins daily, yet rarely consider what they're made of.
Most municipal trash bins are actually made from plastics like high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene. The good news is these plastics generally don't contain BPA, which is more common in polycarbonate plastics (often used for reusable water bottles and food containers). However, that doesn't automatically make them completely safe.
While BPA-free, these plastics can contain other chemical additives like phthalates (for flexibility) or UV stabilizers. The real concern isn't necessarily direct skin contact, but whether these chemicals can leach into the environment, especially when the plastic degrades from sun exposure or extreme temperatures.
Many cities have started adopting stricter standards for public furniture materials. If you're curious about your local bins, look for recycling symbols - numbers 2 (HDPE), 4 (LDPE), or 5 (PP) are generally safer choices. Some progressive cities now use antimicrobial coatings or specifically certified "food-grade" plastics even for trash receptacles.
The movement toward safer public infrastructure is growing, so don't hesitate to contact your local public works department with these questions - your inquiry might help push for better standards in your community!