NYC Compost Pickup Frequency Inadequate During Summer Months, Residents Say

Growing Pains of NYC's Composting Program

• 💡 Nearly a year after its launch, New York City's new composting program is facing criticism from residents regarding the frequency of pickups.
• ⚠️ During hot summer months, compost left outside can bake in the heat, leading to unpleasant odors and attracting pests.

Unbearable Conditions and Pest Infestations

• 🤢 Residents and building superintendents report that the accumulated compost emits a smell described as "raw sewage" and attracts maggots and rats.
• 🦟 Flies are also a significant issue, with tenants experiencing them upon opening compost bins.
• 🧊 Some residents resort to freezing their compost to mitigate the smell and pest problems, though this is not a feasible solution for everyone due to limited freezer space.

Calls for Increased Pickup Frequency

• 🗣️ The primary concern raised by superintendents and tenants is that weekly pickups are insufficient to manage the volume and decomposition of food scraps and yard waste.
• 💬 There is a consensus that while the composting law itself is a good idea for the city, the collection schedule needs adjustment.

Sanitation Department's Response and Future Outlook

• 📬 The Sanitation Department has acknowledged the concerns, stating they are "interested in studying when a second weekly composting collection might be feasible, efficient, and effective."
• 📈 The department notes they have been collecting a record 5 million pounds of compost per week, suggesting the program's success may be contributing to the overflow issues.
• 🗓️ A change in pickup frequency is anticipated, with hopes that the city will implement more frequent collections.