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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 1, 2002
PR-171-02.
www.nyc.gov


MAYOR MICHAEL R. BLOOMBERG SIGNS TEMPORARY RECYCLING REQUIREMENTS

Testimony by Mayor Bloomberg During Public Hearing on Local Law


"The bill before me today is Introductory Number 201-A, sponsored by Council Member McMahon at my request, which will amend the New York City Recycling Law by adding 'Temporary Emergency Recycling Requirements.' This bill authorizes the Department of Sanitation to suspend the collection of plastic and beverage cartons as designated recyclable materials for a one-year period beginning on July 1, 2002 and ending no later than June 30, 2003. Furthermore, this bill suspends the collection of glass as a designated recyclable material for a period of two years beginning on July 1, 2002 and ending no later than June 30, 2004.

"This bill further provides that during any period in which the collection of glass, plastic or beverage cartons is suspended, the tonnage mandates, which require the Department of Sanitation to reduce or recycle a specified amount of solid waste, are also suspended.

"Finally, the bill authorizes the formation of a task force to be established by the Mayor and the City Council to examine and recommend changes to the New York City Recycling Law, including identifying and developing markets for recyclable materials and appropriate recycling standards.

"This Administration is strongly in favor of preserving the environment through recycling programs. However, the City's separate collection of designated recyclables is not cost-effective, especially in the current budget climate. This temporary suspension will save the City an estimated $40M. In addition to its cost, the current recycling program does not achieve its vital environmental objectives, with approximately one-half of the material collected not being recycled into new products. Therefore, the Administration strongly supports suspending the current recycling program in favor of these 'Temporary Emergency Recycling Requirements.'

"At a time when the City's budget gap is estimated at $5 billion, it is imperative for difficult choices to be made. Maintaining the paper and metal portion of the City's recycling program affirms this Administration's dedication to recycling. This temporary suspension, along with the formation of a task force to examine and recommend changes in order to improve the glass, plastic and beverage carton portion of the recycling program is also an affirmation of our dedication to recycling. Ultimately, New York City's Recycling Program will be improved so as to achieve the vital environmental objectives it was intended to in the most efficient and cost-effective way."

 

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Contact: Edward Skyler / Jordan Barowitz
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