The City of Yonkers launched its new pilot program for curbside food scrap collection this week. The program intends to divert compostable materials away from landfills.

The organics recycling program is a joint venture between the City and Westchester County‘s Department of Environmental Facilities. With the launch of the program, Yonkers becomes the largest municipality participating in the Residential Food Scrap Transportation and Disposal (RFSTAD) initiative.

Yonkers households participating in the Yonkers Food Scrap Recycling Program receive a food scrap kit. This consists of a green countertop bucket, larger curbside storage bin, and a roll of compostable bin liners. Residents can then drop off the food scraps at the Yonkers Recycling Center, where they are later transported to a northern Westchester compost facility.

Trash Disposal Goes Green

Mayor Mike Spano first announced plans for the initiative in April 2022, as an expansion to the City’s existing recycling program. Participation in the RFSTAD initiative was promoted as a positive step towards Yonkers’ long-term sustainability. In a statement at the time, Mayor Spano expressed optimism about the positive environmental impacts of the program.

“Yonkers has increased its recycling rate by 44% over the last 10 years and with our participation in RFSTAD, our residents now have the opportunity to improve that number even more,” said Mayor Spano. “Thanks to our partnership with the County, Yonkers can continue to do its part in reducing our carbon footprint and be leaders in creating a cleaner, greener, more sustainable Yonkers.”

At the time of the program’s announcement, Westchester County Executive George Latimer also expressed his support.

“This program has far reaching benefits for our County, our local municipalities—but more importantly the environment. With Yonkers joining the County’s Residential Food Scrap Transportation & Disposal program, our largest City with our highest population is now helping Westchester lead the charge for a more sustainable future. Congratulations to the City, Mayor Spano and our Department of Environmental Facilities for their efforts.”

George Latimer

Click here to participate in the Yonkers Food Scrap Recycling Program.