Athleta Store on Third Avenue Faces Illegal Dumping Allegations from East 86th Street Association

New York, NY – A local community group, the East 86th Street Association, has publicly accused the Athleta store located at 1517 Third Avenue of illegally dumping garbage. The allegations, made via social media by association member Andrew Fine, claim that store staff deposited waste into a recently replanted pit, and were subsequently rude and dismissive when confronted by a volunteer. The incident reportedly occurred two weeks after the beautification effort, prompting a call for Athleta to be a "better neighbor."

The complaint specifically detailed the alleged misconduct, stating, "We asked @Athleta to please refrain from illegally dumping their garbage in the pit that we just replanted two weeks ago." The tweet further highlighted the negative interaction, noting, "Staff was rude and dismissive to @East86th volunteer." The post urged the public to encourage Athleta, situated between 85th and 86th Streets, to address the matter.

The East 86th Street Association is a dedicated community organization focused on enhancing the quality of life in its neighborhood. Their mission includes advocating for a cleaner, safer, and more attractive commercial and residential corridor, often involving local beautification projects such as replanting public spaces. Such efforts rely on the cooperation of local businesses and residents to maintain the improvements.

New York City's Department of Sanitation (DSNY) enforces strict commercial waste rules and regulations for businesses. These guidelines mandate that establishments hire licensed private carting companies or manage their own waste according to specific protocols, including proper containment and designated set-out times. Violations, such as illegal dumping, can can lead to significant fines and penalties for businesses.

Athleta, a prominent activewear brand and a certified B Corp, publicly emphasizes its commitment to sustainability and community well-being. The company's corporate social responsibility initiatives often highlight efforts to be an environmentally conscious and responsible corporate citizen, including promoting sustainable materials and fair labor practices. These public commitments stand in contrast to the recent allegations made by the local community group.

The accusations raise questions regarding local store management practices and their alignment with corporate values, particularly concerning community relations and environmental responsibility. The East 86th Street Association's public appeal suggests a desire for direct engagement and resolution from the retail chain. It remains to be seen how Athleta will respond to these claims and address the concerns of the local community.