Executive Director Andrea Johnson hosted our meeting on October 28th, on behalf of Chair Richard Ludt. Presenters Boyd Jones from Michael Brothers Companies and Asya Vo from the City of Austin both participated. Asya began by presenting an update on Austin’s C&D recycling ordinance, which requires projects over 5,000 square feet to divert 50% of materials or landfill no more than 2.5 pounds per square foot. 

The ordinance has a 56% submission rate with 85% compliance, though reporting is currently separate from the permitting process. The city is working to integrate recycling reports with the permitting process and is evaluating changes to the qualified processor program, with discussions ongoing about the need to qualify all processors. One attendee offered a recycling option for treated lumber, which recently received a patent.

Next, Boyd Jones from Michael Brothers Companies presented a new waste diversion program for Pittsburgh called the Pittsburgh Waste-Wise Fast Track Permitting Program. The program would expedite construction permits for projects that commit to specific waste diversion targets, offering an incentive rather than a mandated activity. Boyd explained how they approached the city government to propose this initiative and discussed their work with a construction company on early adopter projects. Local leaders seem eager to reduce landfill use while supporting local recycling efforts. This initiative will be presented to the city in two weeks for final review and is expected to receive significant support.

The Legislative Committee is expected to close out the year on December 23rd. Please make plans to join us! Not a committee member? Contact info@cdrecycling.org to join this or any other CDRA committee.