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
Iroquois Steeplechase organizers are teasing a “bigger, bolder, and musical” event in 2026.
The Nashville Downtown Partnership’s latest annual report breaks down the numbers behind downtown’s growth in 2025.
Here’s what to know about match days at GEODIS Park as the Boys in Gold prepare for the 2026 season opener against the New England Revolution.
Both spots are open daily, whether you’re stopping by for breakfast or lunch.
Whether they love the outdoors, hands-on learning, or creative outlets, there’s something on this list for every kind of kid.
The free event returns to Nashville with a focus on weather safety and forecasting ahead of peak severe weather season.
The annual Great Backyard Bird Count attracts over one million bird lovers nationwide to help record the bird population — here’s how you can get involved in Nashville.
Some are brand new, others have been around for years — but all of these Nashville-area festivals are on the calendar for 2026.
Billy Strings? Check. Rascal Flatts? Check. It’s not a bad idea to triple-check this list and get your concert tickets before they sell out.
Volunteer opportunities are still available across Nashville, with options ranging from outreach efforts to in-person cleanups.