M.S. Thesis: Technical and Economical Analysis of the NYC Recycling System
By Claire E. Todd
Advisor: Professor Nickolas J. Themelis
Department of Earth and Environmental Engineering
Fu Foundation School of Engineering & Applied Science
Columbia University
May 2002
This study is part of Columbia’s Earth Engineering Center (EEC) continued effort to develop and promote improved municipal solid waste (MSW) management in urban centers. This report first assesses the effectiveness of New York’s current recycling situation based on tours taken of sorting and recycling facilities contracted by the New York City Department of Sanitation (NYCDOS). On the basis of this assessment and studies of successful municipal recycling programs across the country, recommendations are made for improving the cost efficiency and recovery of the New York City Recycling Program.