Starting in October 2024, NYC is rolling out mandatory composting, aiming to make the city cleaner and greener. Accepted items include food scraps, yard waste, and food-soiled paper, which will be transformed into renewable energy or used for gardening.
By spring 2025, fines will be issued for those not following the rules, so now's the time to get into composting. Starting November 12, 2024, small buildings must also use secure trash containers. It's a simple way to reduce waste and contribute to a sustainable city.
Composting plays a crucial role in reducing waste, enhancing soil quality, and mitigating climate change. It diverts organic waste from landfills, reducing methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas. Compost enriches soil with nutrients, improves water retention, and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers. This not only helps plants grow but also supports a healthier ecosystem. Additionally, composting promotes sustainable waste management and reduces the overall carbon footprint, contributing to a cleaner environment and combating climate change. Learn more about the importance of composting in this article.
For more details, check out this video on Curbside Composting in NYC.
Use Curbside composting or 24/7 Smart Composting Bins
NYC offers convenient curbside composting and drop-off options. Starting October 6, 2024, curbside composting will be available to all Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island residents, while it's already available for Brooklyn and Queens. Service happens weekly on your recycling day.
You can also use Smart Composting Bins available 24/7 across all five boroughs, or bring food scraps to designated drop-off sites. The Smart Composting Bins accept a variety of items, including meat, bones, dairy, and greasy paper plates, while drop-off sites are more limited, not accepting meat or dairy, You can find detailed information, including how to locate bins or drop-off sites, on NYC's official composting page.
Composting in NYC can be easy and odor-free with these tips:
- Use your freezer: Store food scraps in a sealed bag or container in your freezer until you’re ready to compost. This prevents smells and pests.
- Balance greens and browns: Mix “greens” (food scraps) with “browns” (paper, dried leaves) for effective composting.
- Choose the right container: Opt for an airtight countertop bin with a carbon filter to reduce odors.
- Utilize curbside pickup or drop-off sites: NYC has services for easy composting, so take advantage of them!
This makes composting manageable even in a small city apartment.
