California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle)

"Innovations" Case Studies

Mixed C & D Processors: A Model for Local Government Recycling and Waste Reduction

During the past decade, a new generation of recyclers has developed throughout the state of California. Hundreds of businesses reuse, recycle, and compost materials source-separated from construction and demolition (C&D) projects. A significant new development, however, is the availability of mixed C&D processors. Mixed C&D processors accept C&D materials in a mixed form and process them for recovery. Processors use a variety of hand labor, specialized materials handling equipment, and mechanized sorting systems to accomplish this heavy task.

Communities that have a mixed C&D processor within an economical haul distance can now be comfortable in requiring that most C&D debris generated in their communities be processed for maximum recovery prior to landfilling. If mixed C&D processing facilities are not available, communities could work to develop them or issue a request for proposals for the service of mixed C&D processing. This study highlights the services that are now available in some communities and how local governments can use these services to help meet the requirements of the Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989 (AB 939, Sher, Chapter 1095, Statutes of 1989 as amended [IWMA]).

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Credits and Disclaimer

Gary Liss & Associates prepared this study pursuant to contract IWM-C8028 ($198,633, included other services) with the University of California at Santa Cruz for a series of 24 studies and summaries. CalRecycle would like to thank the following individuals who helped prepare this document:

  • Alex Dmitriew, Community Recycling & Resource Recovery
  • Michael Gross, Zanker Road Landfill
  • Kelly Ingalls, KMI Building Associates
  • John Teal, Looney Bins
  • Riel Johnson, Bradley Landfill & Recycling Center
  • Steve Austreheim-Smith and Relly Briones, CalRecycle C&D Recycling Program

The statements and conclusions in this summary are those of the contractor and not necessarily those of the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle), its employees, or the State of California. In addition, the data in this report was provided by local sources but not independently verified. The State and its contractors make no warranty, express or implied, and assume no liability for the information contained in this text. Any mention of commercial products, companies, or processes shall not be construed as an endorsement of such products or processes.

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