Drywall Recycling vs. Landfilling: Understanding the Difference
When contractors generate drywall scrap, they typically have two options:
Disposal
Recycling
While disposal has historically been the default option, recycling offers several advantages.
Landfilling
Landfilling drywall:
Consumes airspace
Eliminates future reuse opportunities
Generates disposal costs
Provides no recovery value
Recycling
Recycling drywall:
Recovers gypsum resources
Supports sustainability goals
Improves diversion rates
Creates beneficial reuse opportunities
Why Source Separation Matters
The key to successful recycling is keeping drywall clean.
When drywall is mixed with general construction debris, recycling becomes significantly more difficult.
Dedicated drywall collection containers are often the most effective solution.
Sources
EPA Sustainable Materials Management Program
Construction & Demolition Recycling Association
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
