Statements of Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg on Passage of Two Pieces of Legislation That Will Continue the Progress in Making New York City the Most Sustainable City in the World

December 19, 2013

Intro 1060-A: Restricting the Sale on Single Service Food Items Packaged in Polystyrene:

“This legislation not only eliminates a product that cannot be recycled in New York City, it is a giant step forward in the City’s efforts to recycle organic waste. Foam pollutes the waste stream, making it harder to recycle food waste as well as metal glass and plastic. Once the ban takes effect, it will be much easier and more economical to collect and separate recyclables. I would like to thank Council Speaker Christine Quinn, Council Member Lew Fidler, and the entire City Council for working with us to get this done.”

Intro 1162-A: Requiring the City’s Largest Food Waste Generators to Separate Food Waste Ensuring Waste Does Not Go to Landfill:

“Today’s City Council vote is a significant step towards our PlaNYC goal of diverting more waste from landfills. Over the past few years we have launched a variety of recycling efforts including the food waste challenge, through which city restaurants and institutions have already recycled 2,500 tons of organic waste. New York City’s food industry has led the way in this effort, and I want to thank them for working with us to reach this milestone. I would also like to thank Council Speaker Christine Quinn, Council Member Letitia James, and the entire City Council for working with us in this groundbreaking effort.”

Contact:

Marc La Vorgna / Jake Goldman (212) 788-2958