New York City’s curbside composting program hit a new milestone this month, with the Department of Sanitation (DSNY) reporting over 5.4 million pounds of compostable material collected between May 18 and May 24—the highest total for a single week since the program launched.
The record-setting figure reflects a steady rise in participation, part of a citywide push to reduce landfill waste and turn organic material into usable resources. The increase in volume follows months of consistent growth, with weekly totals rising from 3.6 million pounds in early April to more than 5.2 million pounds by the end of that month.
“These numbers show that New Yorkers want to compost, and they will do so when offered a simple, free, weekly service,” said Acting Sanitation Commissioner Javier Lojan. “As we divert more and more material away from landfill to beneficial use, we are making the program even more convenient with the option of a smaller bin for households that produce less material.”
On May 28, DSNY announced the release of a new 13-gallon compost bin designed specifically for single-family and two-family homes. The smaller bin, which holds about four compost bags, is now available for purchase at bins.nyc for $38.50. It complements the standard 21-gallon bin, priced at $43.47. Residents can also use their own container if it has a secure lid.
The city’s curbside composting service collects food scraps, yard and leaf waste, and food-soiled paper on recycling days. The collected material is processed into compost for use in public parks and gardens or converted into renewable energy.
Queens leads the city in composting participation, having been the first borough to receive universal service in 2022. The program was rolled out in Brooklyn in October 2023 and in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island in October 2024.
To further support composting citywide, DSNY is expanding its compost giveback efforts. In 2025, the department plans to distribute more than 5 million pounds of finished compost to residents. Residents can register for pickup appointments at nyc.gov/GetCompost, with slots opening two weeks ahead of each event.
DSNY also provides compost and mulch free of charge to city agencies and nonprofit groups for use in landscaping and construction. Commercial landscapers and similar businesses can purchase compost in bulk.
