NYC is introducing a new official trash can called NYC Bin, mandatory for residential buildings with 1-9 units by June 2026. Until then, properties can use bins up to 55 gallons with a secure lid. Fines start at $50 for non-compliance. The bins cost $53.01 and include a 10-year warranty. The mayor and sanitation commissioner promoted the bins to revolutionize waste management. Some residents are critical of the cost and effectiveness in deterring rats. The bins are designed for mechanical pickup to reduce worker injuries. A North Carolina company is tasked with selling almost 3.4 million bins. To dispose of old bins, leave them upside down labeled as trash for pickup.
NYC Introduces Official Trash Bins for Residential Buildings
Mayor Eric Adams has unveiled NYC Bin, the city’s new official trash can, which will be mandatory for all residential buildings with one to nine units by June 2026. Starting November 12, these properties can use any bin that is 55 gallons or less with a secure lid. Failure to comply will result in fines starting at $50 for the first offense, $100 for the second offense, and $200 for subsequent offenses.
The official NYC Bins are available for purchase at $53.01, inclusive of shipping, for the largest 45-gallon size. These bins come with a 10-year warranty, and while recycling and compost bins are also available for purchase, they are not mandatory. The discounted price is a result of bulk ordering and is exclusively offered to New York City residents.
Mayor Adams and sanitation commissioner Jessica Tisch introduced the garbage bins in front of Gracie Mansion, emphasizing the city’s “trash revolution.” The initiative aims to containerize 70% of the city’s trash, discouraging rats from feeding on discarded food. The specially-designed bins can be easily picked up by trucks retrofitted with mechanical tippers, reducing the risk of line-of-duty injuries among sanitation workers.
While city officials praise the new directive, some homeowners and building managers are critical. Angela Tiseo, a homeowner in Astoria, expressed frustration over the cost of the bins, despite their relative affordability compared to similar options in stores. She dismissed the concept of trash cans as a “revolutionary vision,” citing her experience of using metal garbage bins in the past.
Similarly, Leslie Tapia in Jamaica questioned the bins’ effectiveness in controlling rats, highlighting the need for addressing broader issues such as public trash cans and uncollected waste in parks. The company responsible for selling the bins expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity, aiming to sell approximately 3.4 million bins, with 1 million to be delivered by November 1, 2024, according to a draft agreement.
For those looking to dispose of old bins, the sanitation department advises leaving them upside down and labeled as trash for garbage pickup.
In conclusion, NYC’s introduction of official trash bins for residential buildings signifies a significant step towards improving waste management and reducing rat infestations in the city. While the initiative has been met with mixed reactions, it underscores the importance of sustainable waste practices and community engagement in addressing urban sanitation challenges.
Source: TheCity.NYC
