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Waste Characterization

We conduct waste characterization studies to document and analyze the composition and generation rates of NYC's waste streams.

Residential Waste Characterization Studies

2023

The 2023 study was conducted over two seasons and determined the waste composition of several major sources from which DSNY collects: residential households, New York City Public Schools, the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA), and on-street litter baskets. Waste from these generators was categorized into 826 unique material categories, providing a comprehensive review of New York City's waste stream.

2017

We evaluated waste from NYC residents, schools, and NYCHA developments over the spring, summer, and fall. This study build on decades of research and analysis into the evolving composition of our waste stream.

2013

Our 2013 study documented the composition and generation rates of NYC's residential curbside waste stream.

2005

The 2005 study was a characterization of NYC’s residential waste, and took samples of both refuse and recycling.

2000

Our Characterization of NYC's Solid Waste Stream report, part of the 2000 Waste Prevention Report Series provided the results of a material-specific waste composition analysis of the City's solid waste stream.

1990

The New York City Waste Composition Study of 1989-90 was initiated in response to the New York City Recycling Law (Local Law 19 1989). It collected field data to use in the implementation of a recycling feasibility studies, pilot-scale, and demonstration scale projects, full-scale facilities.