Mandatory Composting Program for NYC Residents

The New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) has enacted a mandatory composting program for residential buildings. Residents must separate food scraps and food-soiled paper products and bring them to a dedicated composting bin. Examples of food waste and food-soiled paper include meat, bones, dairy, fruit, vegetables, prepared foods, and uncoated paper plates and pizza boxes. The DSNY’s complete composting guidelines are available for review.

WCM Residences

The composting program is in effect for WCM students living in Olin Hall, Lasdon House, 77th Street. Bins with signs for composting are available at the locations below. 

• Lasdon/Belfer Terrace
• Olin Hall Patio
• 77th Street Basement

All NYC Residences

Beginning in April 2025, all NYC residents will need to separate food scraps and food-soiled paper products and bring them to a dedicated composting bin. Please look for composting signs/bins in or near your residence.

All DSNY Recycling Rules

In addition to the new composting program, DSNY recycling rules remain, paper and cardboard must be placed in the green bin, and metal, glass, plastic, and cartons belong in the blue bins. Please keep clean recycling separate from trash.

Your compliance with these rules is important and helps WCM avoid fines from the City.

If you have any questions about the new composting program or need more information, please contact the Office of Energy and Sustainability at WCM-Sustainability@med.cornell.edu.