Market Analysis of Construction and Demolition Material Reuse in the Chicago Region

We analyze the market for construction and demolition (C&D) material reuse in Chicago in order to determine whether one or more reuse stores could be supported in the region. We estimate the current size, composition, and geography of the supply and demand for C&D material. We also identify obstacles to the reuse of C&D materials, discuss “best practices” adopted in other parts of the country, and suggest public policies and market practices that could increase deconstruction and demand for used C&D materials. Using permit data and widely-accepted conversion algorithms, we estimate that the total residential C&D materials generated in the city of Chicago in 2007 was approximately 742,305 tons, the bulk of which were generated from building renovation as opposed to new construction or demolition.