Early beverage cans were opened by pulling a tab that completely removed a portion of the can's lid. These "pop top" tabs were a common form of litter--and a lingering hazard for bare feet, especially at public beaches--for many years until a new type of can was introduced.
Because they are made of aluminum, these containers are very suitable for recycling. In many parts of the world a deposit can be recovered by turning in empty plastic, glass, and aluminum containers. Unlike glass and plastic, aluminum cans are often purchased in bulk by scrap metal dealers, even when deposits are not offered. Their metal construction also conducts heat more readily than glass or plastic, and drinks in aluminum cans can be chilled more quickly than those in other containers.