Zero Waste Schools

GrowNYC Zero Waste Schools (ZWS) has helped New York City schools create effective recycling programs since 2010. In that time, we have helped over 1,300 school communities implement sustainable waste management practices and divert waste from landfill.

Curbside Composting Expansion!

By 2024, all NYC schools will be formally enrolled in the Department of Sanitation’s (DSNY’s) School Curbside Composting program. GrowNYC Zero Waste Schools has partnered with DSNY and NYC Public Schools since the start of this initiative, supporting schools as they transition from traditional collection service to Curbside Composting. Zero Waste Schools provides:

  • On-the-ground assistance to the whole school community

  • Training for school-based operational staff

  • Educational presentations for students and staff

  • Professional Development opportunities for faculty

  • School sustainability leadership development, for both students and adults

In addition to direct support, find training and curricular materials, school leadership resources, and other supportive tools and information below.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It's farmers market season in New York City! View our full schedule of seasonal Greenmarkets and Farmstands opening soon. 

  • Food Access & Agriculture

    Our network of Greenmarket farmers markets, Farmstands, and Fresh Food Box sites, coupled with GrowNYC Wholesale, ensures that all New Yorkers have access to the freshest, healthiest local food.

  • Zero Waste

    We provide food scrap drop-offs, clothing collections, Stop 'N' Swap® community reuse events, and zero waste trainings to make resource conservation easy for all.

  • Green Space

    We build and rejuvenate community gardens and urban farms in all 5 boroughs, and support even more gardens through volunteer days, technical assistance, school garden grants, & more.

  • Education

    We foster future environmental stewards by providing 66,000 children each year with programs that provide meaningful interactions with the natural environment.