This archive report was first published on 7 May 2020.
On May 7, 2020, New York City's Sanitation Department announced that it would be suspending curbside composting due to budget cuts related to the pandemic. The decision was met with criticism from environmentalists, who argued that it was a step backward for the city's efforts to combat climate change.
Anna Sacks, an activist who focuses on trash, recycling, and compost, stated at a town hall meeting that 'we have too much at stake.' She emphasized that the composting program, which involves the participation of an estimated 8 million New Yorkers, 'isn't like a sewage plant that you can turn on and off.' If the program is suspended for 14 months, it will not come back as it is now.
Composting is an essential step in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, as it prevents food scraps from going to landfills where they release methane, a potent greenhouse gas. In contrast, composting beds rely on naturally occurring aerobic microorganisms that break down food scraps into heat, water, and carbon dioxide. This process is not only environmentally friendly but also produces a nutrient-rich soil that can be used for community gardening or agriculture.
Environmental groups in New York estimated that the city's composting programs diverted 118 million pounds of food scraps from landfills last year, capturing more than 42,000 tons' worth of greenhouse gases in the soil. This is equivalent to the emissions from burning almost 50 million pounds of coal.
While the suspension of curbside composting may seem like a setback, there are still alternatives available. Composting services that cater to households are starting to emerge, such as Common Ground Compost, which offers contactless collections from homes in Manhattan for a fee.
However, paid composting services can be expensive. For those looking for a more affordable option, a simple method using a large cardboard box, coco peat, and kuntan (or rice husk ash) can be an effective alternative. This method creates an environment that allows natural microorganisms to thrive, breaking down food scraps into a nutrient-rich compost without any unpleasant odors or mess.
