Construction recycling
How to Recycle Concrete
Cured concrete from sidewalks, foundations, driveways, and demolition. EPA estimated about 405 million tons of C&D concrete generated in 2018, the largest C&D stream. Most next use is aggregate; clean loads grade higher than mixed rubble.
Check local acceptanceOften a tip fee that still beats mixed landfill rates (regional; commonly in a low tens-of-dollars-per-ton range). Clean RCA may sell for a few dollars per ton. Rebar scrap is separate revenue at the plant.Last reviewed July 31, 2026
Quick answer
Clean concrete is crushed into recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) for road base, fill, and some paving mixes. Keep gypsum, trash, and dirt out. Magnets pull rebar for scrap. Haul to a concrete recycler or C&D yard, not curbside.
- Recycling route
- Check locally
- Typical value
- Often a tip fee that still beats mixed landfill rates (regional; commonly in a low tens-of-dollars-per-ton range). Clean RCA may sell for a few dollars per ton. Rebar scrap is separate revenue at the plant.
- Donate / take-back
- Available
How to Prepare
- 1Haul only cured concrete. Fresh pours are not recyclable scrap.
- 2