I am working in forest restoration for the summer. Great work. Very rewarding. But, today I attended an all day Sustainability Conference.

Just for the record, I am not making megabucks and my work is privately funded. Thank you.

We discussed a lot today. Mostly municipal issues and the Star Performers was "Sustainable Jersey."(click here) But, by far the most fascinating presentation was about the very progressive measures of Woolwich, New Jersey.

Woolwich Township Takes On C&D Waste (click title to article - thank you)
Woolwich Township is not only one of the fastest growing communities in Gloucester County, but also one of the most progressive when it comes to construction and demolition waste (C&D) management. With the pace of new development showing no signs of easing up, township officials have addressed the growing quantity of construction and demolition waste being generated in the municipality through an innovative new C&D recycling ordinance.

The ordinance, which took effect on April 16, 2007, requires 65% of the C&D debris generated from projects to be diverted from landfill disposal and instead managed through reuse and recycling options. Integral to the ordinance is the requirement that all applicants for a building permit or demolition/removal permit must first submit information on the anticipated amount of debris to be generated and recycled by the project....

The best part of the ORDINANCE in Woolwich, New Jersey is that there is 'built in' savings for the contractors AND the recycling of 'gypsum board / sheet rock' is VITAL to the remaining construction industry because the manufacturing of any new wall board has been grossly cutback. The recycled construction materials cut back on 'landfill' by as much as 98% at any construction site. It is far more cost effective and beneficial to the construction industry to recycle building materials whenever possible.

That's not all. There is a new economy that uses 'De-Construction' of older buildings. These 'up start' businesses are sometimes supplied with labor from our 'youth' and our 'homeless.' But, the projects where by valuable fixtures, window frames, doors, etc. are carefully removed from homes before they are demolished to produce vacant land and/or places for new construction.

This is an example of a Colorado project, however, the actual project in New Jersey employee homeless men. One of the men is approaching the possibility of an independant business, because, the 'products' obtained through this process are valueable and unique.

New Jersey is impressive. They leave no stone unturned when it comes to recycling and reclaiming the land. Restoring and appreciating Open Space. It was refreshing to be back.

Deconstruction projects help youths build on their future (click here)
BY NATE TAYLOR

NateTaylor@coloradoan.com

May 30, 2009

Neil Kaufman saw a void in the construction and deconstruction industry, and he's trying to fill it with young men and women who otherwise would be missing out on opportunities to succeed in life....