5 Ways To Recycle In Nyc With A Free Poster

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New York City is one of the world's most populous urban areas, with over 8.4 million people living in its five boroughs. As a result, the city generates a massive amount of waste, including recyclables, organics, and trash. However, NYC has implemented various initiatives to reduce waste and increase recycling rates. As a resident or visitor, you can contribute to these efforts by learning about the different ways to recycle in the city. In this article, we will explore five ways to recycle in NYC, along with a free poster to help you get started.

1. Curbside Recycling

Curbside recycling is the most convenient way to recycle in NYC. The Department of Sanitation (DSNY) collects recyclables from households and businesses throughout the city. To participate, you'll need to separate your recyclables from your trash and place them in the designated recycling bin.

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Make sure to rinse your recyclables before putting them in the bin.
• Flatten cardboard and paper products to save space.
• Remove lids, labels, and caps from plastic and glass containers.
• Shredded paper and cardboard can be placed in a clear plastic bag or a paper bag.

What Can Be Recycled Curbside?

• Paper and cardboard (newspaper, cardboard, junk mail, paperboard, and cartons)
• Plastic (bottles, jugs, and containers marked #1 and #2)
• Glass (bottles and jars)
• Metal (cans and foil)

2. Organic Collection

Organic collection is a relatively new initiative in NYC, aimed at reducing food waste and creating nutrient-rich compost. Residents can participate by separating their food waste and yard trimmings from their trash and placing them in a designated bin.

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Use a small bin or container to collect your food waste and yard trimmings.
• Avoid adding plastic, metal, or glass to your organic collection bin.
• Keep your bin clean and covered to prevent pests and odors.

What Can Be Collected Organically?

• Food waste (fruit and vegetable scraps, bread, grains, and eggshells)
• Yard trimmings (leaves, branches, and grass clippings)

3. Electronic Waste Recycling

Electronic waste (e-waste) is a growing concern in NYC, with many residents and businesses upgrading their devices regularly. To address this issue, the city has implemented e-waste recycling programs.

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Check with your local recycling center or community board to find an e-waste collection event near you.
• Remove any batteries or chargers from your devices before recycling them.
• Consider donating your working devices to local charities or organizations.

What Can Be Recycled as E-Waste?

• Computers and computer components
• Phones and phone batteries
• Televisions and monitors
• Printers and scanners
• Gaming consoles and controllers

4. Community Recycling Centers

Community recycling centers are convenient locations where residents can drop off their recyclables, organics, and e-waste. These centers are usually operated by local community groups or non-profits.

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Check with your local community recycling center to see what materials they accept.
• Consider volunteering at your local community recycling center to help with operations.
• Spread the word about community recycling centers in your neighborhood.

What Can Be Recycled at Community Centers?

• Recyclables (paper, plastic, glass, and metal)
• Organics (food waste and yard trimmings)
• E-waste (electronics and batteries)
• Other materials (textiles, household hazardous waste, and bulk items)

5. Special Collection Events

Special collection events are one-day events where residents can drop off specific materials, such as household hazardous waste, textiles, or bulk items.

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Check with your local community board or recycling center to find out about upcoming special collection events.
• Make sure to follow the guidelines for each event, including what materials are accepted and any preparation required.
• Consider volunteering at special collection events to help with operations.

What Can Be Collected at Special Events?

• Household hazardous waste (batteries, electronics, and chemicals)
• Textiles (clothing, fabric scraps, and linens)
• Bulk items (furniture, appliances, and large electronics)
• Other materials (tires, propane tanks, and construction debris)

To help you get started with recycling in NYC, we've created a free poster that summarizes the five ways to recycle in the city. You can download and print the poster to hang in your home, office, or community center.

Download the Free Recycling Poster

By following these tips and participating in NYC's recycling programs, you can make a significant impact on reducing waste and promoting sustainability in the city. Remember to always follow the guidelines for each program and to educate your friends and family about the importance of recycling.