Press Release
Council passes new C&D debris ordinance
Aspen, CO – Aspen City Council passed a new construction and demolition (C&D) diversion ordinance aimed at reducing landfill waste and supporting the city’s sustainability goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. A key focus area in that effort is addressing the high volume of C&D debris, which represents 53% of the material in the Pitkin County landfill and accounts for 16% of Aspen’s greenhouse gas emissions.
The ordinance applies to permitted projects with a construction mitigation disturbance area greater than 2,000 square feet. Projects will be required to separate all recoverable materials, such as concrete, cardboard, metal or untreated lumber, and ensure that at least 50% of the debris by weight is diverted for recycling, repurposing or reuse.
“This new ordinance is a significant step toward achieving Aspen’s sustainability goals,” said Mayor Torre. “By targeting construction and demolition waste, we’re addressing one of the largest contributors to our landfill and greenhouse gas emissions. Together, we can build a greener, more resilient Aspen for future generations."
The city will utilize Green Halo, a web-based waste diversion tracking software to document the disposal tonnage of materials generated from construction and development.
At the time of permit submittal, applicants must submit a diversion recovery plan to be reviewed by Green Halo ensuring that their efforts meet the requirements outlined by the ordinance. Applicants must also pay a diversion deposit, which will be refunded if the requirements are met.
This ordinance goes into effect on Feb. 13, 2025.
For more information, visit aspen.gov/CDDD.
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For more information, please contact:
Ainsley Bronsan-Smith, Waste Diversion & Recycling Program Manager
Phone: 970-618-9757
Email: ainsley.bronsan-smith@aspen.gov
Madie Bailey, Communications Coordinator
Phone: 970-309-1569
Email: madie.bailey@aspen.gov