C&D debris is uncontaminated solid waste resulting from construction, building remodeling, repair, deconstruction or demolition operations. It is estimated that it is the source for 30% of all waste sent to the municipal landfills. Much of the waste could be usable. We pay three times for materials that aren't used or recycled: once when we buy materials, second for disposal and third time when we purchase new materials to replace those that could have been reused.
Benefits to Recycling- This Michigan Recycling Coalition document lists 10 Reasons to Recycle.
Material Donations / Reuse
Consider donations of uncontaminated waste materials to: boy/girl scout projects; theater groups; community rebuilding efforts; vo-tec construction classes; etc. Building items can be donated to or purchased from re-stores. Most accept and re-sell usable items such as: windows; paint; lamps; flooring; cabinets; doors; etc. These stores are also good resources for small jobs that need building and home decorating materials at economical prices.
Building Material Restores - donations and resale
Material Recycling
Recycling success is dependent upon available local resources. Below are lists to help identify those local resources.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
Brownfield Redevelopment
Compliance - see Environmental Compliance
Construction Recycling Resources
Construction Waste Management
Deconstruction Resources
Environmental Compliance
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Air Quality
(doc)
Includes information on asbestos, fugitive dust, etc.
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Federal Compliance Resources
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Inert Materials Notification
(pdf)
Required for 1,000 cubic yards of brick, masonry, pavement, broken concrete used for fill, riprap, slope stabilization, etc.
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Regulations - see the
FAQ
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Stormwater Requirements
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Water, Storm water & Wetland Issues
(doc)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Purchasing Green Construction Materials (coming soon)
Remodeling Resources
Return to Green Construction and Demolition Web Site
"This website was funded in part by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) Region 5 but it does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. EPA. The mention of trade names and commercial products, or inclusion of links to sites for such materials is provided for informational purposes and does not constitute any endorsement or recommendation for use by EPA or the DEQ."
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