Florida Construction News staff writer
The Construction & Demolition Recycling Association (CDRA) announced its 2024 Awards recipients, inducting Ray Kvedaras, a pioneer in C&D recycling with Cooper Recycling (Brooklyn, NY), into the C&D Hall of Fame. Also, GreenWay Recycling (Portland, OR), which recently upgraded its operations to provide one of the highest recycling rates in its region, will receive the C&D Recycler of the Year Award and Dan Horton, Asphalt Shingle Recycling Systems, will receive the CDRA Member of the Year award for pushing the shingle recycling committee and industry forward.
Brandon Lapsys, Viably, will be recognized with the President’s Award for his leadership in helping improve CDRA’s strategies and vision.
“The construction materials recycling industry is fortunate to have these companies and individuals a part of it, and we are honored to celebrate their accomplishments through these awards,” said Jason Haus, CDRA President and CEO of Dem-Con Companies.
C&D Hall of Fame
Ray Kvedaras, a pioneer in the C&D industry for over 35 years, has significantly contributed to increasing recycling rates. Beginning on a small property in Brooklyn, he developed a groundbreaking sorting system capable of handling 1200 tpd with a remarkable recycling rate exceeding 70%. Ray collaborates with peers nationwide and actively shares his expertise to enhance plant operations. Under his guidance, Cooper Recycling now manages a cutting-edge processing plant designed for 2,000 tpd. According to Adrienne Cooper, the company’s CEO, “Ray is a role model to all, and the embodiment of what it means to work diligently, thoughtfully, and safely.”
C&D Recycler of the Year
Greenway Recycling has been recovering construction and demolition materials in Portland, OR, for 20 years, and recently invested $7 million to rebuild its “dry waste” facility into a state-of-the-art operation. The RCI-Certified facility boasts the highest recycling rates in the region, allowing local projects to obtain the coveted LEED Gold and Platinum ratings.
“GreenWay is an excellent example of the innovation, creativity, and resilience our members are known for”, explained Executive Director, Terri Ward. “Combining new technologies with rebuilt and repurposed equipment, investing during the uncertainty of a pandemic, and designing and installing using in-house ingenuity, are just a few of the reasons the CDRA proudly selected GreenWay for this prestigious award.”
CDRA Member of the Year
In the past year Dan Horton, Founding Partner of Asphalt Shingle Recycling Systems, has stepped forward to continue the momentum and expand the CDRA’s Shingle Recycling Committee by bringing in new participants from every stop on the supply change—manufacturer, distributor, hauler, recycler, and end user. This collaboration is furthering the collective understanding and development of potential end markets for recycled asphalt shingles.
CDRA President’s Award
The president’s award is given selectively to highly regarded individuals who exhibit exceptional dedication and passion for the CDRA’s work. This accolade acknowledges leadership that surpasses regular board responsibilities. The recipient’s transformative contributions over numerous years significantly impact the CDRA’s mission and initiatives.
“Our Board is fortunate to have several talented leaders committed to the industry and our mission. Brandon’s leadership and dedication to the CDRA is highly valued and appreciated,” said CDRA President, Jason Haus.
All award winners will be honored as part of the CDRA’s annual membership meeting at C&D World 2024, Jan. 31 to Feb. 2 in Bonita Springs. For more information about the event, go to www.cdraconvention.com.
