New York has a way to turn millions of tons of waste into 'black gold'

New York City in the US converts millions of tons of food waste into nutrient-rich compost, contributing to reducing methane gas and protecting the environment.

Waste is crushed and put into aerated compost pits, reaching temperatures above 37.8 degrees Celsius, enough to kill pathogens and weed seeds - Photo: economictimes

Watermelon rinds, greasy pizza boxes, and tree trimmings... things that are usually landfilled in many cities have now become a valuable resource in New York City: "black gold" from organic waste.

At the Staten Island composting facility, managed by Denali Water Solutions, landscaping and household waste are processed at an average of 100 to 150 tons per day, peaking at 250 tons during fall foliage season.

The waste is crushed and put into aerated compost pits, reaching temperatures above 37.8 degrees Celsius, enough to kill pathogens and weed seeds. After a few weeks, thanks to the activity of microorganisms and insects, the waste turns into nutritious organic fertilizer.

Some of the product is sold to landscape companies, while the rest is given away free to residents, schools, and community gardens. "We've given out nearly 6 million pounds of compost to New Yorkers this year alone," said Jennifer McDonnell, deputy commissioner of the New York City Waste Management Department.

According to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), food waste and yard waste make up the largest portion of household waste. When landfilled, they emit methane, a gas that contributes significantly to the greenhouse effect.

"To mitigate the climate crisis, we must take food waste out of landfills and into composting," said Eric Goldstein, New York environmental director at NRDC.

New York City’s organics program requires residents to separate food scraps, greasy paper, and yard waste. Penalties for violators were suspended this year but are expected to be reinstated in 2026.

VNA

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/new-york-co-cach-bien-hang-trieu-tan-rac-thai-thanh-vang-den-20250913171631332.htm