Schools Recycling

ALL NYC schools are required to recycle. A School Sustainability Coordinator must be appointed each year to plan for and coordinate each school's recycling efforts.

What to Recycle

NYC collect recycling in two separate streams (groups)

• Metal, glass, plastic, and cartons
• Mixed paper and cardboard

How to Recycle

Recycling Setup

• Set up recycling stations everywhere waste is discarded in your school
• Label bins with decals and post signage above.
• Line bins with clear plastic bags to keep them clean
• Empty food and liquids from containers before recycling

Keep the two recycling streams separate at all times—in waste collection areas, in storage, and at the curb. 

NEVER mix trash with recyclables.

Flatten and tie corrugated cardboard into bundles no more than 18" high. Dumpsters can be used for clean paper and cardboard, but metal, glass, plastic, and cartons must always be set out in bags.

Set out furniture that is mostly metal or plastic with recycling. Large, non-recyclable items (like wooden furniture) should be set out with trash.

Learn more about setout rules and schedules for schools.

Download the DSNY setout schedule for NYC schools.

Electronics, Appliances, and Electronic Waste

The following items require special handling and schools must follow specific guidelines for disposal:

• Air conditioners
• Electronics
• Fluorescent bulbs
• Rechargeable batteries
• Refrigerators
• Paint