CMRA hopeful about lead-based paint rules - C&D News - EPA may publish a revised rule

Recycling Today, Oct, 2001

Recyclers of painted wood and concrete debris will reportedly have more options when revised U.S. EPA rules concerning lead-based paint are made public.

William Turley, executive director of the CMRA, says sources within the EPA are indicating that a revised rule has received internal clearance at the agency and will be published by the end of the year.

The original rule proposed by the EPA would have banned all debris with measurable amounts or lead-based paint from C&D recycling centers. Recyclers were almost unanimous in their objections to this rule and its potential effect on the viability of both wood and concrete recycling.

The revised rule will reportedly allow C&D recycling facilities to remain as disposal options for painted wood and concrete, where they can be processed into new products that will greatly dilute the presence of lead contained within these products.

The EPA's reconsideration of the rule has been taking place since the original rule was proposed in the first half of 1999. Public comment periods elicited strong remarks from members of trade groups such as the CMRA, Lisle, Ill., the National Association of Demolition Contractors, Doylestown, Pa., and from other recycling advocates.