Trendy DUMBO is the first neighborhood to have recycling containers on its sidewalks. It's part of the DUMBO Business Improvement District's "smart environmental efforts" plan, the first phase of which was formally launched this week.

The Department of Transportation has installed 35 new bike racks --  many located near mass transit -- within DUMBO's 10-block radius. The area's restaurants have partnered with the Doe Fund to recycle used cooking oil.

"We want to show the ease of being an environmentally friendly neighborhood," said Tucker Reed, executive director of DUMBO's BID. "I find people watching 'An Inconvenient Truth' or reading about global warming feel they're powerless. We want to show that making small changes collectively can make a big difference."

Later this month, the BID will distribute canvas shopping bags and compact florescent light bulbs.

On the Upper West Side, the Columbus Avenue Business Improvement District is eying initiatives such as bike lanes, street trees and bus rapid transit. Executive Director Barbara Adler would also like to see more public gathering spaces, community information boards and even window display contests.

DUMBO plans

• Public recycling
• Alternative transportation
• Consumption reduction
• Greater energy efficiency
• Environmental education