CDRA names 2024 Hall of Fame inductee, Recycler of the Year, and other award winners

The Construction & Demolition Recycling Association (CDRA) is recognizing pioneers in the C&D industry with its 2024 awards. Ray Kvedaras at Cooper Recycling (Brooklyn, N.Y.), will be inducted into the C&D Hall of Fame at C&D World 2024, January 31 to February 2 in Bonita Springs, F.L. GreenWay Recycling (Portland, O.R.), 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. Dan Horton, Asphalt Shingle Recycling Systems, will receive the CDRA Member of the Year for pushing the shingle recycling committee and industry forward. Finally, Brandon Lapsys, Viably, will be recognized with the President's Award for his leadership in helping improve CDRA's strategies and vision.

These Construction & Demolition Recycling Association awards are being presented in recognition of excellence in the C&D industry.

"The construction materials recycling industry is fortunate to have these companies and individuals a part of it, and we are honoured to celebrate their accomplishments through these awards," said Jason Haus, CDRA president and CEO of Dem-Con Companies.

C&D Hall of Fame inductee

Ray Kvedaras, a long-time member of the C&D industry with over 35 years of experience, 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 percent. Ray collaborates with peers nationwide and actively shares his expertise to enhance plant operations. Under his guidance, Cooper Recycling now manages a 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, O.R., for 20 years and recently invested $7 million to rebuild its "dry waste" facility. The RCI-certified facility boasts the highest recycling rates in the region, allowing local projects to obtain LEED Gold and Platinum ratings. This is thanks in part to a $700,000 grant through the Investment and Innovation program from Metro, the regional government that manages Portland's garbage and recycling system.

"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 furthers 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," said CDRA President, Jason Haus. "Brandon's leadership and dedication to the CDRA is highly valued and appreciated. I wanted to personally thank him and recognize his countless contributions with the President's Award."