Stuff You Should Know NYC Trash: A study in persistence
May 14, 2024
Discover the colossal task of managing 12,000 tons of trash daily in New York City. Unravel the historical challenges and innovative strategies that have shaped the sanitation system. Learn about fascinating figures like George Waring, who transformed street cleaning in the 19th century. Explore the connections between waste management and organized crime, along with the complexities of transporting garbage. Get insights into the unique features of NYC's sanitation operations and the ongoing fight against urban waste.
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NYC's Dirty History
- Early New York City was notoriously filthy, depicted in works like Gangs of New York.
- 20% of the metro area is built on former garbage dumps; Ellis Island grew from 3 to 28 acres using landfill.
Past Success in Sanitation
- Previous cleanup efforts in NYC, like those led by George Waring in 1895, proved effective.
- Waring's success stemmed from implementing a military-style hierarchy and distinctive uniforms.
Waring's Impact
- George Waring, known for designing Memphis's sewage system, transformed NYC's sanitation.
- He implemented trash cans and other measures to improve the city's cleanliness.