Mission

The Lower East Side Ecology Center (Ecology Center) has been pioneering community-based models in urban sustainability since 1987. Focusing on the diverse and complex setting that is New York City, the Ecology Center has successfully replicated programs in composting and electronic waste recycling services, environmental education and stewardship of urban green spaces.

What We Do

The Lower East Side Ecology Center was founded in 1987 as one of the first organizations to offer community-based recycling and composting programs in New York City. We started our programs by providing innovative recycling drop-off centers. Today, the Ecology Center offers free public compost collection and education, electronic waste recycling, stewardship of public open space, and environmental education. Our programs focus on offering opportunities for all New Yorkers to learn about environmental issues facing NYC and to take responsibility for solving those problems.