Recycling and Waste Diversion in NYC Flashcards

What is the purpose of NYC's containerization law for commercial waste?

Answer: To require commercial trash to be stored in sealed bins rather than bags on sidewalks

NYC's containerization law for commercial waste requires businesses to use sealed bins instead of garbage bags on sidewalks to reduce litter, pests, and odors.

What is the maximum penalty for illegal dumping of commercial waste in NYC?

Answer: $10,000 or more

Commercial illegal dumping in NYC can result in fines of $10,000 or more per violation, reflecting the serious environmental and public health impact.

What does NYC's 'organics diversion rate' measure?

Answer: The proportion of organic waste diverted from landfills via composting or biogas

The organics diversion rate measures what percentage of NYC's food and organic waste is successfully composted or converted to energy rather than landfilled.

How does NYC's 'Pay As You Throw' concept differ from standard garbage collection?

Answer: Residents pay per bag or by weight of waste generated rather than a flat fee

Pay As You Throw systems charge residents based on the quantity of waste they generate, creating a financial incentive to reduce waste and increase recycling.

Which type of NYC business must contract with a private carting company rather than using DSNY collection?

Answer: Commercial establishments generating business waste

Commercial businesses in NYC are required to contract with licensed private carting companies for their waste, as DSNY only collects residential and institutional waste.

What is the purpose of NYC's Designated Truck Zones (DTZ) for commercial waste haulers?

Answer: To restrict heavy sanitation trucks to specific routes that minimize neighborhood disruption

Designated Truck Zones (DTZ) restrict commercial waste haulers to approved routes to reduce heavy truck traffic in residential neighborhoods and minimize noise and air pollution.