# 🔴 LIVE: Oversight Hearing on Eliminating Waste and Pollution


**Body:** New York City Council
**Date:** September 16, 2026
**Jurisdiction:** SLED

**Tags:** Environment, Construction & Infrastructure, Physical Infrastructure, Grants & Funding


The New York City Council held an oversight hearing on September 16, 2026, focused on eliminating waste and pollution, with particular attention to solid waste management, recycling, composting, and textile waste diversion. The Department of Sanitation (DSNY) provided extensive testimony on current programs, including mandatory curbside recycling and composting, textile recycling initiatives, and plans for new composting facilities, notably at Riker's Island. Discussions included challenges in textile recycling, the need for expanded infrastructure, and the potential for extended producer responsibility (EPR) laws to shift recycling costs to manufacturers. The council also considered legislation such as Intro 256, which would require DSNY to study textile source separation and collection feasibility. Public testimony highlighted support for enhanced textile recycling, concerns about illegal dumping, and calls for improved outreach and enforcement. The hearing addressed procurement-related topics including DSNY's solicitation for an owner's adviser to assist with contracting for co-digestion and gas-to-energy projects at Hunts Point, as well as the need for investments in composting infrastructure and waste diversion technologies. The council expressed interest in expanding public-private partnerships and improving waste management policies to support a circular economy and reduce landfill reliance.

**Source:** New York City Council