The Brian Lehrer Show
How to Compost in NYC
Mar 31, 2025
Liam Quigley, a reporter for WNYC and Gothamist, specializes in New York City’s parks and sanitation. He discusses the challenges of the city’s new mandatory composting program, which is facing low compliance and potential fines for property owners. Liam offers practical tips for composting in cramped urban spaces and tackles the common issue of pests, especially in Brooklyn. He also highlights innovative composting options and the pivotal role of effective waste management in reducing the city's rat population.
25:45
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Quick takeaways
- New NYC composting regulations require residents to separate organic waste, but compliance remains low with only 5% participation.
- High-rise tenants face significant challenges due to inadequate composting resources, hindering effective waste management in urban settings.
Deep dives
Mandatory Composting Regulations
All city residents are now required to compost their organic waste, as part of a new mandate that started in October. Data reveals that fewer than 5% of compostable materials are actually being separated from regular trash, triggering the city's move to enforce compliance through fines. Property owners face penalties starting at $25 for smaller buildings and up to $300 for larger ones for non-compliance. This initiative aims to improve waste management and reduce the volume of organic waste heading to landfills.
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