As executive director of the Construction & Demolition Recycling Association (CDRA), which represents 270 members across the United States, William Turley certainly has his plate full these days. While the industry continues to adapt to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, Turley and CDRA have served as a crucial resource for not only its members, but the industry as a whole. Portable Plants caught up with Turley for an update on what he’s hearing from CDRA members and how they’re persisting during these trying times.
In the midst of this coronavirus pandemic, what are you hearing from your association members? What are some of their concerns and how are you addressing those concerns?
Much of the waste industry is considered an essential industry, and, as such, our members are still open for business. On the mixed C&D (construction and demolition) side, obviously incoming material from the commercial side is way down. We have also seen some states declare construction non-essential, shutting down our main source of material. Other states and localities are limiting construction to only essential sectors, such as medical and low-income housing. That keeps some material coming in.
Infrastructure construction has often kept going, which does feed concrete and asphalt recyclers. For example, Ohio DOT (Department of Transportation) is considering this a great opportunity to get roadwork completed because fewer cars are on the road.
How has the coronavirus impacted the way the Construction & Demolition Recycling Association can go about its business, whether on a day-to-day basis or big picture?
A big challenge is getting people to come to work. There is a lot of fear out there about working on a sort line because the spacing between workers can be tight.
In response, some mixed C&D recyclers are skipping spots on the picking line to better space workers, and we have heard of a couple [companies] raising the pay of those workers who do show up.
How has the coronavirus impacted your members’ views or expectations for the recycled materials industries in 2020?
Our members are scrambling in this hectic environment. Everybody is expecting a down year, and some companies are just trying to survive.
Have you seen or heard any inspirational stories from association members during these unprecedented times?
Probably the best one is what we posted on social media about Sun Recycling in Maryland. As you might expect, mixed C&D operations get in a large variety of material.
About a year ago, Sun got in its incoming stream about 36,000 N95 masks, [and] there was debate whether to keep or pitch them. But they were kept, and Sun Recycling was able to donate the masks to a local medical center which was running short of these important, life-saving pieces of equipment for medical personnel.
What else would you like to share in regards to your association and the ongoing coronavirus pandemic?
Take precautions, wash your hands and stay safe.
For additional Portable Plants coverage related to the coronavirus, visit our dedicated webpage.