commercial waste

'For decades, the private carting industry has operated with blatant disregard for the safety of workers and pedestrians and the health of our environment.'

Trade groups such as the Real Estate Board of New York have long opposed exclusive waste zones, arguing that the open-market approach reduces competition and drives up prices.

The city thinks that commercial waste truck traffic could be reduced by 60% with this plan.

Residents of the South Bronx and North Brooklyn are breathing high levels of diesel pollution.

"I've worked in the commercial sanitation industry for 28 years, and I've never once recycled bottles or cans."