Manhattan SWAB Chair Matt Civello and longtime member Maggie Clarke Ph.D. called in to the “Living for the City” radio show on WBAI to emphasize the importance of recycling and waste reduction in NYC.
In speaking with host Michael Haskins, Civello and Clarke clarified misconceptions about the city’s waste management program and championed the importance of zero waste as an overlooked tool for combating climate change. Clarke, Chair of the MSWAB’s Long Range Planning Committee, highlighted the connection: “If we incinerate or landfill our waste, we add to the carbon footprint through trucking emissions and methane, a potent greenhouse gas.” She proceeded to cite that "82% of NYC waste is exported to incinerators or landfills - most of which is recycleable, compostable, reusable, or preventable."
When Haskins inquired how to improve the system, Civello emphasized that the “first 6 feet” — the distance between you and your kitchen — represents a critical point of intervention, as good waste management starts with proper source separation. Clarke hailed the importance of public education and outreach to raise awareness about proper practices, stating the need to bring attention to the unappreciated, yet highly important, everyday activity of waste disposal.
See the full interview on WBAI’s website.