Support Us Button Widget

Reduce, reuse, recycle: How a Nashville proposal could prompt a greener response to construction waste

If the new legislation is approved, it would introduce recycling requirements for developers and construction sites in phases beginning July 1, 2024.

NASHtoday_Construction_Project_JUNE_2023.jpg

Neuhoff Germantown

Photo by NASHtoday

Table of Contents

Around 33%. That’s the amount of waste in Middle Tennessee landfills from construction and demolition debris — but a new proposal expected to be presented to Metro Council this month could change that.

What this means

The ordinance would apply to large commercial and multifamily (5+ units) construction projects valued at $500,000+ and commercial demolition projects valued at $50,000 or more. Materials diverted from landfills will be phased in over a three-year period and begin with corrugated cardboard, metal, clean concrete, and land clearing debris in Phase 1. It is the job site’s responsibility to collect materials in a container for them to later be sorted at a recycling facility.

Note: Enforcement would begin for permits applied for on or after July 1, 2024.

Get involved

Stay tuned for a series of virtual and in-person public meetings to share your input, or fill out the online form.

Bonus: Review the proposed timeline + recycling processing facility requirements.

More from NASHtoday
Let’s talk ghosts — and no, not the paranormal type. Today, we’re diving into ghost signs.
The tech giant revealed fresh images of its planned East Bank campus, which will include public green space, riverwalks, and a pedestrian bridge.
From Wisconsin and North Carolina to Arkansas and California, no one does it quite like Music City, but these towns across the nation do share the Nashville name.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Paul McCartney? Check. Sabrina Carpenter? Check. It’s not a bad idea to triple-check this list and get your concert tickets before they sell out.
The family-owned restaurant opened its first location in San Diego in 2012.
Hockey is back — here’s how to stream the games, navigate the schedule like a pro, and cheer on the Nashville Predators this 2025-2026 NHL season.
Lend a hand outdoors at these local volunteer events.
Chapstick offers wall-to-wall screens at 1400 Woodland St.
The next election in Davidson County is inching closer on Tuesday, Oct. 7, and we’re here to help you prepare for the polls.