Waste Structures on Long Island

“According to the New York State Department of Conservation (NYSDEC), there are 96 active waste structures on Long Island. These include 4 incinerators, 5 landfills, 16 material recovery facilities (recycling facilities), and 71 waste transfer stations. Out of the 96 waste structures, about 28% are located in or within a three mile radius of an environmental justice community.”

A Look at Waste Flow

“From this chart and from annual reports, we can tell how much is being recycled and what it takes for waste to reach its final destination. Each town should create a waste flow chart to some degree to examine their own waste practices and adjust their plan and policies from there. Understanding each town’s plans could identify weaknesses and strengths in their current state and make adjustments accordingly.”