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Local Processing Facilities

Diversion/Recycling Rates for Local C&D Processing Facilities

The Solid Waste Division has suspended its monthly reporting of diversion rates by C&D recycling facilities while we revise definitions of materials and processes classified as landfill diversion (consisting of reuse, recycling and beneficial use). Specifically, the Division has proposed designation of ‘industrial waste stabilizer’ as disposal, and a limitation on the amount of alternative daily cover (ADC) that can be classified as diversion (beneficial use) at 25% of the processing facility’s output.

Project owners should also be aware that materials classified as recyclable or beneficial use may differ depending on the municipality where the project occurs and the green building rating system that is applied to the project. This can affect the handling of materials and calculation of the project diversion rate. For source separated C&D recycling options please visit King County's What Do I Do With…? website.

According to Washington State code (WAC 173-345-040), if a location has a diversion/recycling collection container there must also be a container present for the collection of waste (destined for a landfill).

Project owners, contractors and demolition firms can maximize the amount of C&D that is diverted, and qualify their project for LEED or Built Green credits, by adhering to the following steps:

1. Separate materials which may be diverted from those that will be managed as solid waste. Check with your processing facility beforehand to determine what materials they will accept for diversion.
2. Confirm when entering the facility, or when having a hauler take the container, that the load will be processed for diversion.
3. Request documentation from the facility (and hauler when appropriate) which clearly shows that the load was processed for diversion (recycling and beneficial use).

This is required for LEED or Built Green credit. A tipping receipt marked "Diversion" or "Recycling" provides documentation that the load was diverted for recycling or beneficial use instead of being disposed of as a waste.

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