Cashing In On C&D

William Turley

Construction and demolition debris (C&D) represents more than just pennies for pebbles for the solid waste industry. Currently, C&D comprises 18 to 25 percent of the nation's waste streams, and innovative professionals are capitalizing on this burgeoning market.

C&D Debris Recycling magazine estimates at least 2,000 plants in North America process waste concrete, asphalt, wood, gypsum or shingles into reusable products.

We expect the industry to continue to grow by about 10 percent annually. C&D Debris Recycling, which works closely with the industry's only trade group, the Construction Materials Recycling Association (CMRA), reports that many manufacturers have developed C&D-specific equipment and will continue to upgrade the machinery as the industry evolves. Some recent advances include increased portability for concrete and asphalt recycling equipment, better shredders and grinders for wood, and more efficient paper/drywall separators for gypsum waste.

For subscription information on C&D Debris Recycling magazine, call (913) 967-1665, or fax (913) 967-1903. For information on the CMRA, write: CMRA, P.O. Box 644, Lisle, Ill., 60532. Phone: (312) 609-4241.