How do I find a hauler willing to recycle? Word of mouth. Check with companies in this directory. They can often recommend haulers. If you use haulers listed in the Yellow Pages, ask for a reference and consider instructing them to take designated materials to certain end markets. Regardless of whom you choose, ask haulers to document facilities used and to provide copies of weight tickets from every load.

Doesn’t recycling take too much time and cost too much? No. Not because of labor - trained workers learn quickly and the steps to recycle are simple. Not because of service - hauling takes the same time whether materials are recycled or trashed. Not because of logistics - recycling is coordinated specifically to the job site and the job schedule. Recycling can save money in avoided disposal costs and can generate revenue through material sales.

Won’t deconstruction and salvage delay my schedule? No. Deconstruction can be scheduled during the fixed asset removal, move-out phase. This leaves less work and volume for demolition phase. Deconstruction can uncover areas that need asbestos and lead removal before demolition proceeds.

How do I prevent container contamination? Train workers and supervisors, especially on the use of designated bins. Proper signage on bins is essential. Consider locating bins in a locked or supervised area or having bins with lids to discourage contamination by the public.

Can unsorted loads of demolition or construction waste be recycled? Yes. Our region has facilities that can process mixed loads of construction and demolition debris. These facilities typically use mechanical systems such as crushers, shakers, screens, magnets, and blowers. One downside is that mixed processing typically reduces the value of recovered materials.

Which is better: the source separation method or the mixed material method? The higher onsite costs of a source separation program --¬ in which materials are sorted and each type is placed in its own bin --¬ may be offset by much lower disposal costs and the much higher value of recovered materials. Mixed material systems generally have lower recycling rates and have more difficulty documenting recycling amounts. If space is limited, consider a hybrid system. Use one container for a large quantity of easily recycled material such as cardboard and another for the mixed materials.

What materials require special handling? Lead and asbestos-contaminated materials, solvents, paint thinners, mercury switches, pressure-treated and creosote-treated wood are considered hazardous and are not recyclable. Contact the relevant jurisdiction listed on page xx for information on proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials.

What are the main obstacles and barriers? Unfamiliar crews, accelerated schedule, stacked trades, multiple materials, limited site space, high recycling goals. Proper planning, training, and specific contract provisions can address these issues.