Waste Diversion
CALGreen requires covered projects to recycle and/or salvage for reuse a minimum 65% of the nonhazardous construction and demolition waste or meet a local construction and demolition waste management ordinance, whichever is more stringent.
The code applies to various occupancies and types. Please see this table for general requirements for each type. For specifics on the code’s scope, see Section 101.3. Also see Section 101.11 for a list of steps that can be used to determine which sections apply to each type of occupancy.
Methods of Compliance
- Enforcing agencies can require contractors to develop and maintain a waste management plan and document diversion and disposal. OR
- Utilize a waste management company that can provide verifiable documentation that it meets 65% waste diversion. OR
- Use a waste stream reduction alternative:
- Non-residential new construction and residential high rise (4 stories or more) projects with a total disposal weight of ≤ 2 lbs/ft2 meets the 65% waste diversion requirement.
- Residential low rise (3 stories or less) with new construction disposal of ≤ 3.4 lbs/ft2 meets the 65% waste diversion requirement.
Recycling by Occupants (Space for Recycling)
Newly constructed non-residential buildings, certain non-residential additions and multi-family housing with ≥ 5 units should provide readily accessible areas that serve the entire building and are identified for the depositing, storage and collection of non-hazardous materials for recycling, including (at minimum) paper, corrugated cardboard, glass, plastics, organic waste and metals.
For more information on CALGreen’s waste diversion requirements, refer to the FAQ page.
For more information contact: Local Assistance & Market Development, LAMD@calrecycle.ca.gov