EPA Touts Success in Green Building Partnership

The United States Environmental Protection Agency is working with Forest City Commercial Group to recycle close to 85,000 tons of concrete and other demolition material from a closed manufacturing facility in Richmond, Va.

"As a partner in both the cleanup and redevelopment of this former industrial site, EPA commends Forest City Commercial Group for its commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability," said Donald Welsh, EPA’s mid-Atlantic regional administrator. "As they work to incorporate recycling and sustainable design into their project, their efforts will result in the conservation of natural resources, the reduction of greenhouse emissions, and an increase in energy savings."

Demolition of the building began about seven weeks ago following an environmental investigation and selection of a remediation plan according to EPA guidelines. Nearly 85,000 tons of concrete and metal will be recycled.

About 77,000 tons of concrete will be crushed on site and used for foundation, sidewalks, and structural support for the retail complex. Almost 7,500 tons of aluminum, steel, iron, copper, assorted ferrous and non-ferrous metals and electronic equipment in the old building, such as filter boxes, computer systems and transformers will be recycled through reclamation buyers around the country.