Mulder’s Landscape Supplies, Inc., and Waste Not Recycling, LLC, are working on plans to build a construction and demolition (C&D) waste recycling center and transfer station in Kalamazoo Township. Slated for a five-acre site on the southeast corner of Ravine Road and Nichols Road, the proposed 20,000-square-foot facility will employ 20 full-time workers, reduce landfill waste, and add to the local economy, according to a news release about the proposal.
“C&D recycling is a $7 billion industry supporting 28,000 U.S. jobs. We’re eager to help our community tap into this economic driver, especially at this critical time,” Art Mulder, president of Mulder’s Landscape Supplies, said in a prepared statement.
C&D waste comes from construction, renovation, repair and demolition of homes, buildings and other structures, roads and public works projects. It includes concrete, asphalt, asphalt shingles, gypsum wallboard, wood, metals, bricks, glass and landscaping debris, according to project organizers.
While recycling C&D waste generates revenue for recyclers, it also cuts costs for the construction industry, according to the statement. Asphalt can be recycled into aggregate or new asphalt and concrete products. Wood can be recycled into engineered wood products such as furniture, or used for mulch and composting. Metals can be recycled and repurposed.
Ken Hoving of Middleville, owner of Waste Not Recycling, said the recycling center will use two connected buildings totaling 20,000 square feet, with the possibility of adding 15,000 square feet in the future. All recycling operations will happen indoors, minimizing noise and visible debris, according to the statement. The property will be paved to minimize dust. The plan includes landscaping, fencing, and directed access to and from the site solely on Ravine Road. “As a lifelong resident and local businessman, I know the Kalamazoo area has the best workers, the best quality of life, and a shared commitment to reducing environmental impact,” Mulder said. “I can’t think of a better home for our recycling center.”