A proposed rule will require commercial food service establishments in New York City to separate organic waste through composting, aerobic or anaerobic digestion, or another method approved by the Department of Sanitation. The policy, which was announced by the administration of Mayor Bill de Blasio, allows affected businesses to choose from waste removal by a private carter, transporting the organic waste themselves, or processing the material on site.
Facilities affected by the new rule include:
1) Food service establishments in hotels with at least 150 rooms.
2) Food service vendors in arenas and stadiums that seat 15,000 people or more.
3) Food manufacturers with a floor area of at least 25,000 square feet.
4) Food wholesalers with a floor area of at least 20,000 square feet.
Before the rule is adopted, it will be subject to a public hearing and comment period, and will take effect six months after the official implementation. After the rule is imposed, there will be a six-month grace period before fines are levied.
