URGENT UPDATE: A new report released just today criticizes New York City’s sanitation plan, emphasizing that recycling must also be containerized to effectively address the ongoing waste crisis. The report, published by the Center for Building in North America and the Center for Zero Waste Design, highlights that under Mayor Eric Adams, the initiative has not adequately tackled the issue of recycling, which continues to clutter sidewalks across the city.
The report applauds the city’s efforts to require businesses and small residential buildings to place their trash in secured bins. However, it stresses that paper, plastic, and glass recycling remains a significant problem, piling up on walkways and contributing to urban clutter. The group advocates for the inclusion of recyclables and compost in the new “Empire Bins,” which are being rolled out in parking spaces to collect waste from large buildings.
Clare Miflin, executive director of the Center for Zero Waste Design, stated, “When you’re going to do something this big and expensive, I think you need to think bigger.” She envisions a future where the majority of the city’s waste and recycling is stored in bins placed along the streets. “It shouldn’t be trash only. It should be for both recycling streams and compostable waste,” Miflin added.
The sanitation department has outlined a plan to install streetside bins in front of every residential building with more than 30 units over the next seven years. Buildings with 10 to 30 units can either request a bin or utilize wheelie bins for collection, while those with fewer than 10 units are already mandated to use smaller containers.
Sanitation department spokesperson Joshua Goodman defended the current approach, stating that it balances the challenges of narrow streets with the need to minimize trash on sidewalks. He noted that while recycling is collected less frequently, it does not attract rats in the same way that garbage bags do. “Containerization in New York City is achievable, but it requires trade-offs,” Goodman emphasized.
The report’s recommendations align with pilot programs already in place in parts of Brooklyn and Upper Manhattan, where bins installed outside school buildings include separate receptacles for organic waste and recyclables. Schools, which produce significantly more compostable waste than residential buildings, have necessitated this option.
With the upcoming administration of Zohran Mamdani, there may be renewed support for these recommendations. Miflin is part of the transition team working with Mamdani, who has expressed his backing for containerizing the city’s recycling.
As New Yorkers grapple with trash issues, this report serves as a crucial reminder of the need for comprehensive solutions. The debate over NYC’s sanitation practices is far from over, and residents are urged to stay informed about future developments.
For further updates on this developing story, stay tuned.
