Hi-Rise' Recycling System with Garbage Compactor Qualifies

Landlord asked the DHCR if the installation of a "hi-rise" recycling and garbage compacting system would qualify as an MCI. In an opinion letter the DHCR said that the recycling system would qualify if installed in connection with a new garbage compactor. Landlord's proposed system would replace existing compactor chutes with a single chute that housed multiple containers in the basement of the building. The chute would open electronically on each floor by pressing different buttons for garbage, newspapers, cans, glass, and other recyclables. The superintendent would have to remove the various items from a garbage bin turntable in the basement and move them to the compactor. While the system overall would make recycling more convenient for tenants, it would also be a less efficient means of garbage disposal and would eliminate some garbage chutes. The recycling system wasn't essential to the compactor or to implementation of a recycling program. However, if installed in conjunction with a garbage compactor after the useful life of the current compactor expired, the entire system would qualify as an MCI.

DHCR Opin. Ltr. by Nathaniel Geller (11/1/95) [2-page document]