NYC's Trash Revolution: Rebates, Rat-Proof Bins, and Winter Prep!

New York City is tackling its trash problem head-on with a multi-pronged approach. Mayor Eric Adams announced that qualified homeowners will receive rebate checks to offset the cost of new city-required trash bins for curbside pickup starting June 2026. This initiative targets one- and two-family homeowners with STAR or E-STAR tax credits.

Simultaneously, the city is expanding its innovative "Empire Bin" program. These large, rat-resistant curbside containers will be rolled out in Fort Greene and Clinton Hill this fall, starting with schools before expanding to all schools and high-density residential areas in Brooklyn Community District 2 next year. Learn more about the Empire Bin rollout: [<a href="https://ny1.com/nyc/all-boroughs/news/2025/09/16/stationary-on-street-trash-bins-set-to-roll-out-in-parts-of-brooklyn" target="_blank">Stationary On-Street Trash Bins Set To Roll Out In Parts Of Brooklyn</a>].

Meanwhile, the city is gearing up for winter. Salt spreaders and plows were recently seen rehearsing routes in Manhattan, ensuring preparedness for the upcoming season. Acting Sanitation Commissioner Javier Lojan discussed these initiatives in a recent interview on NY1's "Mornings On 1." [Watch the full interview here (Video Player Placeholder)]

This comprehensive approach combines financial incentives for residents with infrastructural improvements to enhance waste management and prepare for winter challenges.