(Courtesy of GrowTorah) Teaneck took a major step toward a greener future recently with the official launch of its highly anticipated municipal Compost Pilot Program. Township officials, environmental advocates, and enthusiastic residents gathered to celebrate the town’s latest sustainability initiative, designed to reduce waste, support healthier soil, and promote a more eco-conscious community.
Township Manager Jaclyn Hashmat addressed attendees, emphasizing Teaneck’s strong commitment to the program and its vision for a long-term, town-wide composting initiative. “We’re excited to see this pilot program come to life,” Hashmat said. “Our hope is that with a successful launch and positive feedback, we’ll be able to expand composting access to even more residents in the near future.”
Mayor Mark Schwartz also spoke at the event, highlighting Teaneck’s leadership in environmental responsibility. “By launching this program, Teaneck joins a small but growing number of municipalities across the country taking real, tangible action to protect the environment and build healthier soil,” he said. “We are proud to be setting an example for other towns to follow.”
A key factor in the program’s success is the partnership between Teaneck’s Department of Public Works (DPW) and community leaders. Superintendent of the DPW, Michael Sermabekian, expressed his department’s full commitment to supporting the project and ensuring it runs smoothly. He emphasized the department’s excitement to partner with residents in building a greener Teaneck.
Much of the organization and momentum behind the initiative can be credited to the township’s Environmental Commission, led by Chair Hildy Dillon. Dillon played a central role in bringing the project to life, from its initial concept to full execution. Working closely with Vice Chair Yosef Gillers, she helped forge a partnership with Neighborhood Compost, the organization that will facilitate composting operations for Teaneck residents. Dillon’s leadership and tireless efforts were widely recognized and appreciated by town officials and community members alike.
Residents who enrolled in the pilot program received their compost starter kits at the launch event. Volunteers were on hand to distribute kits and offer guidance on home composting best practices, helping set participants up for success. Educational materials, hands-on demonstrations, and Q&A sessions made composting accessible and approachable for both beginners and experienced composters alike.
The Teaneck Compost Pilot Program marks an important milestone in the township’s environmental efforts. By empowering residents to reduce food waste and enrich the soil, Teaneck is not only protecting its natural resources but also fostering a stronger sense of community stewardship. As the pilot progresses, officials are hopeful that enthusiasm will continue to grow, paving the way for a permanent, expanded composting program in the years ahead.
For now, Teaneck residents can be proud to be part of a forward-thinking movement—making a difference one compost bin at a time.
For more information about the program, and to join the waitlist, visit: https://www.teanecknj.gov/living-in-teaneck/garbage-and-recycling/composting/
