New York commences enforcement

Recycling Today, August, 2004

The New York City Department of Sanitation began enforcement of its recycling laws in July. The city collects glass, plastics, metal cans and several types of recovered fiber through a citywide program. The focus of the enforcement will be on glass, which was reintroduced to the city's curbside collection program recently.

The resumption of enforcement followed a 90-day public outreach campaign during which no summonses were written for failure to recycle glass. The city's weekly recycling program was fully restored April 1 after two years of glass and plastic materials suspension in light of the city's fiscal challenges.

"The DSNY was aware that New Yorkers deserved time to adjust to a regular recycling schedule, therefore a three-month grace period was granted during which no summonses were issued for the improper recycling of glass," said Sanitation Commissioner John J. Doherty.

A telemarketing campaign is reminding residents to recycle glass properly or face a $25 fine. The Sanitation department also has placed ads and flyers in daily and weekly newspapers and mailed brochures to building managers, owners and homeowners.