When people think about New York City, they picture towering skyscrapers, packed subways, and endless energy. What they don’t always think about is what keeps the city livable every single day: sanitation. Behind the scenes, waste management, recycling, and sustainability efforts are working nonstop to support millions of residents—and that’s where the NYC Trash Academy comes in.

NYC is currently accepting applications for Trash Academy, a free eight-week webinar for New Yorkers who are passionate about creating a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable city. The program explores the far-reaching impacts of waste management on our environment, society, and economy.

The deadline to apply is January 8, 2026. Classes begin January 27 and run until March 18.

The Academy focuses on real-world systems that affect daily life in NYC. That makes the experience accessible, relevant, and surprisingly eye-opening. Participants walk away understanding not just the “what,” but the “why” behind sanitation rules and environmental policies.

One of the most powerful aspects of NYC Trash Academy is its community impact. When people understand how waste systems work, they’re better equipped to make responsible choices—whether that’s sorting recycling correctly, reducing food waste, or advocating for cleaner neighborhoods.

The Academy helps turn everyday residents into informed environmental stewards. That ripple effect matters. Small changes at the individual level can add up to major improvements across the city, especially in neighborhoods that are disproportionately affected by pollution and sanitation issues.

Whether you’re passionate about the environment, curious about how NYC works, or simply want to be a more responsible resident, NYC Trash Academy offers a meaningful way to learn and contribute. It’s a reminder that even the most overlooked systems can have the biggest impact when people understand and support them.

You can learn more about the NYC Trash Academy and sign up here.