Waste reduction efforts are entering a new phase this week, as the city's sanitation agency begins enforcing mandatory composting laws

As of April 1, the city will start issuing fines to New Yorkers if they're found to be dodging the city's mandatory composting policy.

Composting is the simplest way to turn your trash into treasure. Not only can it help reduce the world’s carbon footprint, but the fertilizer that results from the process can also make food more nutritious.

New York City’s waste reduction efforts will commence a new phase on Tuesday, as the city’s sanitation agency will begin enforcing a law-mandated composting program with fines. Starting April 1, residents will have to separate food waste from trash or risk receiving a $25 fine from the Department of Sanitation.

New York City residents will be subject to fines for failing to separate compostable materials from their regular trash.

Discover 5 effective strategies to minimize food waste at home, save money, and promote sustainability in your kitchen.

The new rules took effect last fall, but they're just starting to be enforced by the Department of Sanitation. CBS News New York's Christina Fan has the details.

Everyone in New York City will have to start composting on Tuesday.