Learn how to set up your recycling areas for our collection services.
- Set up centrally located waste sorting stations with all 3 bins in the lobby, each floor near elevators, entrance and other highly trafficked areas.
- Clearly label all recycling bins — use DSNY green decals for mixed paper and blue decals for metal, glass, plastic and cartons. Post signs above the recycling bins and replace signs when worn or ripped. Order free decals and signs.
- Line recycling bins with clear plastic bags (not colored bags); use black bags only for garbage.
- Never mix any recyclables with garbage. Do not mix paper and cardboard with metal, glass, plastic, and cartons in the same bin or bag (unless the site is a leased commercial space with single-stream recycling; see business recycling.
- If your agency has no bins or limited bins, bring your recycling to the central waste sorting stations. You should ideally have two bins at each work station: one for paper and one for garbage.
- Collect food and food-soiled ONLY in or near the pantry or lunchroom. To reduce pests, use a bin with a lid.
- Break down cardboard boxes before putting them into bags. Bundles of flattened cardboard, newspapers and magazines should be no more than 18 inches high and should be secured with sturdy twine — don’t use tape.
- Periodically check what’s going into the bins, and place additional recycling bins everywhere where recyclables might be discarded, such as near mailboxes and in common areas.
- Provide staff and visitors with current recycling information. Regularly post recycling tips on notice boards.
- Request a DSNY site visit or staff presentation to help improve recycling in your agency.
- Your agency’s Recycling/Sustainability Coordinators must submit an Annual Report to the head of their agencies and to the Commissioner of Sanitation, summarizing actions taken to implement your agency’s Waste Prevention, Reuse, and Recycling Plan and any proposed actions to improve this plan.
*Note: Buildings serviced by a private carter recycle the same materials but may have different sorting systems, as allowed under Business Recycling requirements.