Constructing a Circular Economy
There’s no reason why we can’t reuse materials and source recycled products while we build in Philly.
Philadelphia is experiencing a building boom as our population grows for the first time in generations. But even though the EPA reports that an impressive 75% of construction and demolition debris is recycled in the US, construction and demolition debris still accounts for about 32% of materials going to landfills.
At Circular Philadelphia, we work with construction and demolition recyclers, deconstruction companies, builders and city officials to increase reuse and recycling of building materials while also addressing Philadelphia’s pervasive illegal dumping problem. We also work with architects, building operators and purchasers to require and source reclaimed and recycled products for their projects.
Built Environment Initiatives
Deconstruction
Supporting the burgeoning deconstruction sector in Philadelphia, a city filled with old building stock that is ripe for reuse, helps create local jobs, reduce the construction waste destined for landfill and grows circularity in the built environment. We are developing resources for contractors, architects and developers to prioritize deconstruction over demolition to save valuable materials and money.
Expanding Access for Construction Debris Recycling
By utilizing the City’s six public sanitation convenience centers to allow haulers to recycle small loads of construction and demolition waste, we can prevent illegal dumping and increase recycling in Philly. Through this initiative, we are working to make construction debris recycling more accessible to small haulers and residents in the city.
Construction and Demolition Recycling Legislation
According to the EPA, 40% of all material entering landfills nationwide is construction and demolition debris.C&D waste illegally dumped on vacant lots costs the city millions of dollars annually, and recycling these materials creates jobs, greens our neighborhoods, and grows our local economy. Together we can ensure that construction and demolition waste is properly recycled by creating smart legislation that works for everyone.