Already the largest curbside collection program in the United States, this week marks a significant milestone in bringing us closer to our zero-waste goal. With Brooklyn North 2 and Brooklyn South 13 and 15 launching collections this week, 360,000 more New Yorkers can help us turn food scraps, food-soiled paper and yard trimmings into compost and clean energy. Plus, residents in Manhattan and the Bronx will have easy access to 18 new drop-off sites we’re unveiling.

But this program can’t succeed without your hard work and support.

With a workforce nearly 10,000 strong – most of us in the field each day – at some point we’ll be asked about organics. Whether it’s a neighbor unsure how to use a brown bin or a passerby stopping you while on your route, you can explain that NYC Organics is good for the environment and good for our neighborhoods, since latching a brown bin keeps away pests. Please take those opportunities to spread the word and suggest they visit nyc.gov/organics.

Expanding NYC Organics is outlined in the 2016 Strategic Plan, our blueprint to fortifying our Department, improving vital services and enhancing employee and public safety. Released one year ago this month, we’re now surveying our progress – and updating our goals in it. Because the Strategic Plan is a “living” document, one that evolves with our successes, pinpoints emerging challenges and helps maintain our long-term focus, we’ll be updating it annually. Keep reading future editions of Trash Talk for the next Strategic Plan update – and share your suggestions.

Thank you for all that you do to keep New York City healthy, safe and clean.