North Austin News

The City of Austin's Construction and Demolition (C&D) Recycling Ordinance mandates that general contractors reuse or recycle construction debris. An efficient recycling program can help save money while meeting the city's requirements.

To create a successful recycling program at your project site, consider the following tips:

Plan ahead

Determine the types of waste the project will generate during each phase. This will help identify which processors, recyclers, and haulers are best suited for the project. A mixed C&D processor allows most materials to be mixed into one dumpster, while other recyclers require materials to be separated on-site. Although separation can take more time and space, it offers greater savings and higher recycling rates to meet ordinance requirements.

Common construction debris that can be reused or recycled include:

Ensure haulers, processors, and recycling facilities provide weight tickets for each load of material. These tickets are necessary for completing the required online report at the end of the project. Compiling them into a weight ticket summary spreadsheet can simplify filling out your Construction Recycling Report.

Set up the job site for success

Consider how many dumpsters, recycling containers, and storage areas are needed for the project. Clearly label containers with images of materials to promote proper sorting. When possible, pair recycling dumpsters next to landfill trash dumpsters to reduce the risk of trash contaminating recyclable materials. Excessive trash in a recycling container can result in the entire dumpster being taken to a landfill instead of being recycled.

Train staff and subcontractors

Educate and train all employees throughout the project on proper recycling practices needed to meet city requirements. Address recycling at job site meetings, orientations, or lunches. Provide all employees, including subcontractors, with a copy of job site recycling instructions.

Site photographs can help communicate the impact of construction debris being placed in incorrect dumpsters.

Reduce waste

The most environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution is reducing waste created during a project. Implement waste reduction strategies at all stages from procurement to final inspection.

Reuse and recycle materials

Use resources like the Austin Reuse Directory to find places where items can be donated, resold, recycled, or repaired.

For more information about Austin’s Construction and Demolition Recycling Ordinance or to submit a Construction Recycling Report visit: austintexas.gov/cd.