Composting Organic Waste at State and Municipal buildings in New York Bill - Fall

Team Members: Daniela Fandiño Santos, Celine Andriana, Alan Chan, Astrid Giraud, Sarah Haris, Haoyang Li, Kanishka Pandey, Kunyue Zhou, Silvia Vargas, Maria Florencia Perez, Yiwei Liu

This report evaluates New York State Bill A02467, which proposes mandatory organic waste separation and recycling programs across state and municipal government buildings. Organic waste represents a substantial portion of the municipal solid waste stream and contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions when disposed of in landfills. The proposed legislation supports the state’s broader climate goals under the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA), which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030 and 85% by 2050. The report examines the policy context, outlines the bill’s requirements, and assesses the institutional and operational changes needed to implement organics recycling programs within public agencies.

To support effective implementation, the report proposes a phased program design led by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. The plan includes developing education and outreach programs, establishing reporting and compliance systems, and supporting infrastructure development for composting and anaerobic digestion. Drawing lessons from California’s SB1383 organic waste recycling law, the report emphasizes the importance of public education, consistent funding, and flexible program design that accommodates the diverse needs of municipalities. Implementation options include on-site composting facilities or contracts with private waste haulers for processing organic waste. By reducing landfill emissions and promoting circular waste management systems, the bill aims to strengthen New York’s climate strategy while improving resource recovery and supporting sustainable waste management practices statewide. 

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