Q&A
Enforcement challenges for organic waste separation mandates
0:55:56
·
52 sec
Council Member Shaun Abreu inquires about DSNY's methods for enforcing organic separation mandates, given that trash bags are opaque. Deputy Commissioner Joshua Goodman explains that while bags aren't transparent, there are telltale signs of compostable material, such as 'garbage juice'. He mentions that DSNY has been known to open bags to check for separated material, but acknowledges that a fully developed plan is not yet in place.
- DSNY relies on visual cues and occasional bag inspections for enforcement
- A comprehensive enforcement plan is still in development
- Council Member Abreu requests more detailed guidance on the enforcement process
Shaun Abreu
0:55:56
I'm a turn it back to organics.
0:56:00
I had a question I wanted to ask you earlier, but didn't get the opportunity kinda just forgot to ask the question.
0:56:06
How will DSNY observe compliance with organic separation mandates?
0:56:11
Trash bags are not clear to observe if it has organic waste in it?
Joshua Goodman
0:56:14
It's true that they're not clear.
0:56:17
However, there are certain telltale signs of compostable material in a trash bag, particularly the world famous garbage juice.
0:56:28
And, certainly, I I don't wanna get ahead of a fully developed plan, but the sanitation department has been known to open bags in pursuit of sort of separated material.
Shaun Abreu
0:56:37
I would like to have some some guidance on this.
0:56:40
I don't know if it's like a feel or if it's a hunch, it's a spot check.
0:56:44
I would like to see what a plan.
Joshua Goodman
0:56:46
You you you yes.
0:56:47
I understand.
0:56:48
I understand.
