Date of Award

Fall 2008

Project Type

Thesis

Program or Major

Resource Economics

Degree Name

Master of Science

First Advisor

John M Halstead

Abstract

Construction and demolition (C&D) debris is a significant part of the waste stream in the United States. Recycling is increasingly becoming a more popular method of disposal due to both market and regulatory forces; however, most of the debris is still landfilled. C&D debris facilities handle materials with low value and have few market opportunities. Limited recycling opportunities may be available for hazardous materials. A survey of mixed material C&D recyclers in the United States is analyzed in this paper. Some topics of interest covered in the survey included: end uses and markets for recycled materials; technological processes utilized by facilities; recycling rates of facilities; landfill collaboration; C&D debris fines; tipping fees; materials of concern to facility management. Many facilities do not and are not required to test C&D debris fines prior to beneficial use alternative daily cover (ADC); many respondents have limited market opportunity for demolition drywall, demolition wood, and asphalt shingles. The findings will help stakeholders understand the climate of the industry nation-wide and make informed decisions.

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