Westchester Reporter

The City of New Rochelle has launched a new drop-off food scrap recycling program, becoming the 28th municipality to join Westchester County's Residential Food Scrap Transportation and Disposal Program (RFSTAD). Under RFSTAD, district municipalities manage the collection of residential food scraps through either a drop-off or curbside collection system. The collected food waste is then transported to an organics recycler at a subsidized rate arranged by the district.

With this initiative, New Rochelle aims to reduce the amount of food scraps ending up in solid waste streams and provide residents with a convenient recycling option. Last year, RFSTAD managed over 1,100 tons of food waste and continues to grow as more localities recognize its environmental benefits and cost savings.

The decision by New Rochelle to join RFSTAD aligns with Westchester County's broader commitment to sustainability. County Executive George Latimer emphasized the importance of easing the financial burden on local municipalities while expanding recycling efforts county-wide. "My administration has been steadfast in expanding our food scrap recycling program’s influence and our recycling efforts County-wide," said Latimer. "The City of New Rochelle joins the ranks of other local municipalities wanting to provide its residents with an additional way they can recycle and make an environmental impact."

DEF Commissioner Vincent Kopicki expressed enthusiasm about New Rochelle's participation: “We are all thrilled to have another municipality join our RFSTAD program, reinforcing my Department’s commitment to implementing recycling programs to reduce waste and protect the environment.”

New Rochelle Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert also highlighted the community benefits: “We are excited to bring this program to our residents. Not only does it reflect our commitment to environmental sustainability but it also strengthens our community's role in reducing waste and conserving resources."

In addition to RFSTAD, Westchester County operates CompostEd, a small-scale composting site adjacent to the H-MRF in Valhalla. This facility can process up to two tons of food scraps per week and serves as an educational resource for residents, students, and municipal officials interested in learning about composting.

For more information about CompostED or tour participation inquiries, interested parties are encouraged to reach out via email.

Subscribe to My Westchester weekly e-mail newsletter for updates on selected events.