UPDATE: New York City residents can now easily dispose of their Christmas trees as the city expands its curbside composting program. Effective immediately, New Yorkers can place their real Christmas trees and holiday wreaths at the curb during their designated composting and recycling days.
The NYC Department of Sanitation confirms that this new initiative allows for a hassle-free disposal process, eliminating the need to wait for specific collection dates. Residents must ensure that all decorations, ornaments, and stands are removed before setting their trees out. Importantly, trees should not be wrapped in plastic bags, as they will be collected alongside other compostable materials like food scraps and yard waste.
Once collected, these trees will be chipped and mixed with leaves, transforming them into valuable compost or renewable energy for the city. This eco-friendly approach not only helps in waste management but also contributes to the city’s sustainability efforts.
If you are looking to recycle an artificial tree, it’s crucial to dismantle the metal base and trunk and place those parts with other metal recycling. This ensures that all components are properly processed.
Additionally, New Yorkers have the opportunity to participate in the annual Mulchfest event, taking place from December 26, 2025 to January 11, 2026. Residents can bring their trees to designated Mulchfest locations across the city, where they will be transformed into wood chips to nourish local trees and enhance the city’s greenery.
On “Chipping Weekend,” scheduled for January 10 and 11, participants will receive a bag of mulch to take home, which can be used in their backyards or to create winter beds for street trees. This initiative not only promotes recycling but also fosters community engagement and environmental stewardship.
According to NYC Parks, more than 52,500 trees were recycled in 2024, showcasing the city’s commitment to sustainability and responsible waste management. Residents are encouraged to find a Mulchfest location nearby by visiting the NYC Parks website.
As the holiday season wraps up, this program reflects New York City’s urgent call for environmentally responsible practices, making it easier than ever for residents to contribute to a greener future. Share this news to help spread the word about effective tree recycling options in NYC!
