FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
About CDRA
What is CDRA and what does the Construction & Demolition Recycling Association do?
The CDRA is a U.S.-based nonprofit trade association founded in 1994 that promotes the environmentally sound recycling of construction and demolition materials—including aggregates, asphalt, wood, gypsum, shingles, and metals. We advocate, educate, and support our members through conferences, research and policy outreach.
Why should companies join CDRA?
Members gain access to industry intelligence, white papers, webinars, certification programs, committee participation, and networking events like The Annual CDRA Conference & Tradeshow. They also receive discounts on services like Recycling Certification Institute (RCI) Certification.
How do demolition contractors benefit from partnering with CDRA?
CDRA offers resources, recognition, and policy advocacy that help demolition contractors improve recovery rates and reduce costs.
What materials does CDRA support recycling for?
CDRA supports recycling of aggregates, concrete, asphalt pavement, asphalt shingles, gypsum drywall, wood, and metals—covering the full spectrum of construction and demolition debris.
Where can I find a C&D recycler near me?
Use our “Find a Recycler” tool to locate licensed C&D recyclers by state, material type, and service area.
What is the RCI certification and why is it important?
RCI Certification provides third-party validation of recovery rates and operational transparency—boosting credibility with LEED professionals, regulators, and customers. CDRA members receive exclusive certification discounts.
What events does CDRA host and how can I participate?
CDRA hosts key events like the annual The Annual CDRA Conference & Tradeshow (Jan 27–30, 2026, Tampa, FL), the semi-annual Shingle Recycling Forum, and various committee meetings (e.g., Aggregates, Gypsum, Shingles, End Markets Development, Legislative, Safety & Risk).
How can I access CDRA resources like webinars and regulatory profiles?
Our “Resources” section offers white papers, case studies, and presentations. These are freely available or accessible to CDRA members.
How does CDRA influence policy and regulation for C&D recycling?
Through committees and partnerships and ongoing engagement with DOTs and agencies, CDRA researches, educates, and shapes regulations that support economically and technically feasible C&D recycling.
Does CDRA advocate for landfill bans?
CDRA supports policies that promote recycling but focuses on education and infrastructure rather than mandates or bans.
What tools does CDRA offer to help contractors improve recycling rates?
CDRA offers guidelines, best practice case studies, webinars, and access to certified facility directories.
How does CDRA support innovation in the C&D industry?
CDRA fosters innovation by supporting research, spotlighting new technology at events, and partnering with universities and labs.
How can I join CDRA or inquire about membership levels?
Visit our “Membership > Join Now” section to find sponsor levels and benefits. Contact us directly for customized membership information.
Membership & Certification
How do I become a CDRA member?
Visit the “Join Now” page, choose your membership level, and fill out the application form. CDRA staff are available to assist.
What are the different CDRA membership levels?
CDRA offers Corporate, Supporting, Sustaining, Premier and Leading, Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum sponsorships, each with unique benefits like event discounts and increased visibility.
How do I get listed in CDRA’s ‘Find a Recycler’ tool?
CDRA members can submit their business info to be featured in the recycling directory based on services and locations.
Can non-members attend CDRA events like The Annual CDRA Conference & Tradeshow?
Yes, non-members are welcome at The Annual CDRA Conference & Tradeshow and other events, though members receive discounted rates and exclusive networking access.
How can I get certified through RCI?
Visit recyclingcertification.org for application details. CDRA members can receive guidance and exclusive pricing on RCI Certifications audits.
What’s the difference between LEED and RCI certification?
LEED is a building certification program, while RCI certifies recycling facilities. Both support green construction practices but serve different roles.
Does CDRA offer continuing education or training?
Yes. CDRA hosts committee meetings, annual conferences and other learning opportunities, webinars, workshops, and forums throughout the year to help members stay informed and compliant.
What committees can I join as a CDRA member?
Members can join industry-focused committees such as Aggregate and Concrete Recycling, Shingle Recycling, Gypsum Recycling, Safety & Risk, or Advocacy & Legislation.
How can I showcase my company on CDRA’s website?
Members can be featured in the online directory and may receive spotlight opportunities in newsletters or events.
Are CDRA resources available to the public?
Many resources like regulatory profiles and webinars are public, but some require member login for full access.
Does CDRA provide data or reports for the C&D industry?
Yes, CDRA publishes white papers, market studies, and summaries of research collaborations with universities and government agencies.
C&D Recycling General Questions
What is C&D recycling?
C&D recycling is the process of recovering and reusing materials generated from construction, renovation, and demolition projects.
What is the difference between reuse and recycling in construction?
Reuse involves salvaging materials for the same or new purpose without reprocessing, while recycling transforms waste into new raw materials.
What are the economic benefits of recycling construction and demolition materials?
Recycling C&D materials reduces landfill tipping fees, conserves raw materials, and creates local jobs, boosting the circular economy in construction.
What are the environmental benefits of C&D recycling?
C&D recycling reduces landfill use, cuts greenhouse gas emissions, conserves resources, and minimizes the carbon footprint of construction projects.
What are end markets for recycled C&D materials?
Common end markets include road construction, landscaping, aggregate supply, compost, biomass energy, and new building materials.
Which states have regulations supporting C&D material recycling?
Many U.S. states and municipalities have adopted C&D waste diversion requirements. CDRA’s regulatory profiles help recyclers understand and comply with local laws.
Does the recycling of C&D materials vary by region or state?
Yes. State and local regulations can vary widely, especially regarding landfill bans, recovery rate requirements, and LEED equivalency.
What’s the difference between source-separated and commingled C&D recycling?
Source-separated recycling involves sorting materials on-site, leading to cleaner streams. Commingled loads are sorted later at a recycling facility.
How are mixed C&D loads processed at recycling facilities?
Facilities use mechanical and manual separation (MRFs) to sort mixed C&D loads into concrete, wood, metal, and residual landfill waste.
How is clean fill defined in construction and demolition recycling?
Clean fill typically includes uncontaminated soil, rock, concrete, brick, and asphalt—not mixed with hazardous or organic waste.
What contaminants prevent materials from being recycled in C&D debris?
Asbestos, lead paint, adhesives, insulation, and certain plastics can prevent recycling and may require hazardous waste protocols.
How can I reduce construction waste at the job site?
Plan material usage, separate recyclables on-site, use prefab elements, and work with RCI-certified recyclers for waste diversion.
How do I calculate diversion rates on my project?
Diversion rate = (Recycled or reused material ÷ total C&D waste generated) × 100%. Tools and calculators are available through CDRA and LEED.
What is embodied carbon and how does C&D recycling help reduce it?
Embodied carbon is the CO2 emitted during material production. Recycling reduces this by offsetting virgin material use and energy demand.
Aggregates, Concrete & Asphalt Recycling
How does concrete recycling work and what are its benefits?
Concrete is crushed, sized, sorted, and cleaned to produce recycled aggregate. Benefits include reduced disposal fees, lower transportation costs, and sustainable reuse in base layers, ready-mix, asphalt, bedding, and landscaping.
Is recycled concrete regulated or accepted by DOT and ASTM/AASHTO?
Nationwide, DOTs and agency specifications (ASTM, AASHTO) increasingly accept recycled concrete aggregates. Some states have legislation mandating recycled content in new concrete.
Is there a market for recycled concrete aggregate (RCA)?
Yes. RCA is in high demand for road base, pipe bedding, and fill material, particularly in states with DOT approval.
What types of concrete can be recycled in C&D operations?
Most non-contaminated concrete can be recycled, including clean concrete, concrete with rebar, and concrete from sidewalks, foundations, and roads.
Are bricks and masonry recyclable?
Bricks and masonry can be crushed and reused as fill, aggregate, or base material—especially if free of mortar or contaminants.
Wood Recycling
Can wood waste from construction be recycled or reused?
Yes. Clean wood can be reused, turned into mulch, or used as biomass fuel. Contaminated wood may require special processing.
Can painted or treated wood be recycled from demolition projects?
Painted or treated wood may not be recyclable due to contamination, but clean dimensional lumber and pallets often are. Local regulations apply.
Are engineered wood products recyclable (e.g., OSB, MDF)?
Many engineered wood products are not recyclable due to glue content, but may be repurposed or used in biomass energy generation.
Gypsum Recycling
How is gypsum drywall recycled?
Gypsum is separated from paper backing, then processed into powder for reuse in new drywall, cement production, or soil amendments.
How is drywall contamination handled in gypsum recycling?
Facilities use screening, drying, and odor control methods to address contaminants such as mold, nails, or adhesives in post-consumer drywall.
Asphalt Shingles Recycling
How does CDRA support shingle recycling?
CDRA convenes the Shingle Recycling Forum—bringing together recyclers, manufacturers, DOT officials, and technology providers to promote best practices and share innovation in asphalt shingle recycling.
Can I recycle asphalt shingles?
Yes, recycled asphalt shingles (RAS) can be used in hot mix asphalt and road base, reducing material costs and landfill waste.
What are the main uses of recycled asphalt shingles (RAS)?
RAS is commonly used in hot mix asphalt (HMA) for roads, as well as cold patch and aggregate base, offering cost and performance benefits.
What are the requirements for recycling roofing materials other than shingles?
Metal roofing is fully recyclable. Membrane roofing (EPDM, TPO) may require special handling and is accepted at select C&D recycling facilities.
Metals & More Recycling
What happens to metals from C&D sites?
Metals are separated and sent to scrap yards or foundries for smelting and reuse in new products.
Can carpet or flooring materials be recycled in C&D waste?
Some carpet tiles, vinyl, and rubber flooring are recyclable depending on type and condition. CDRA facilities may accept them on a case-by-case basis.
How is insulation handled in C&D material recovery?
Most insulation (fiberglass, foam board) is not recyclable through typical C&D streams and is considered residual waste, unless clean and separated.
What happens to plastic components in construction debris?
Large rigid plastics such as PVC pipes and HDPE sheeting can be separated and recycled if free from contamination or adhesives.