MassDEP raises C&D process separation-rate minimum to 25% by 2030, plans reporting revisions

Mike Elliott, speaking for MassDEP’s C&D subcommittee, told the Solid Waste Advisory Committee that MassDEP updated the C&D Minimum Performance Standard to reflect staged increases in the process separation rate (PSR) minimum threshold, with a target of 25% by 2030.

"Based on the data reported in the 2022 waste characterization study... MassDEP is very confident that the incremental increases to the PSR minimum threshold from the current 15% to 25% by 2030 are achievable," Elliott said, adding that some facilities already exceed the target and that the increases are phased over five years to allow operational adjustments.

Elliott described steps to improve reporting: MassDEP will revise the C&D facility annual-report form and instructions to reduce inconsistency in submissions, using staff review, practices from surrounding states and feedback from construction managers. MassDEP held a hybrid workshop on Oct. 21 with about 20–23 participants and plans internal approvals of revised forms by year-end for use in 2025 annual reports, followed by an evaluation of effectiveness in mid‑2025.

Elliott clarified the PSR definition in a follow-up: it is the fraction of inbound material that is recycled, converted, or otherwise diverted (excluding landfill-dependent uses such as alternative daily cover or road stabilization).

MassDEP circulated a memorandum to the C&D subcommittee, distribution lists and large C&D-handling facilities in July and expects to continue outreach as the PSR increases are implemented.