It Is/Ain't Easy Being Green

Recycling - Despite its good intentions, the Department of Sanitation's curbside recycling program does not accept too many commonly used recyclables. One item that sticks out in my mind the most are those plastic take out containers so prevalent in the city. Why can't we add non-#1 and #2 plastics into our recyclables stream?
Subway Access (or lack thereof) - Large swaths of the city are nowhere near a subway station. There are parts of eastern Queens, for instance, that are 5-6 mile from the nearest subway. It doesn't look lines lines will be extended to these underserved areas anytime soon.
Traffic Congestion - Traffic is a huge problem in New York, and it now looks like congestion pricing won't come into effect any time soon. The high level of air and noise pollution combined with the hours of lost productivity damage overall quality of life in the city.

Green Energy - Energy market deregulation in New York State means that NYC residents can choose who their energy delivery company is, as well as choose a "green" energy option. When you choose to buy green energy, you are investing in energy sources such as wind, solar and small hydro being added into the grid.

Population Density - Cities with higher population densities tend to be much more energy and materials efficient than cities with lower densities. New York benefits from economies of scale - for instance, so many people in a relatively compact area mean that people walk more and driving is not as convenient as compared to suburban and rural areas.

Public Transportation - New York's public transport system is one of the largest in the world. It might not always work as efficiently as we would like it to, but you can get around the farthest reaches of all five boroughs on subway or bus.