While AB 2844 represents a technical adjustment to existing legislation on recycled concrete materials without imposing any new regulations, its significance lies in promoting wider acceptance and utilization of recycled materials in construction. By ensuring that users are thoroughly informed about the materials being used, the bill could potentially stimulate increased use of sustainable practices in construction projects. With California's ongoing push toward sustainability and waste reduction, this could align with the state's environmental goals, reinforcing a circular economy for building materials.
Summary
Assembly Bill No. 2844, introduced by Assembly Member Calderon on February 15, 2024, is aimed at amending Section 16002 of the California Public Resources Code, specifically concerning the use of recycled concrete materials. This legislation permits the utilization of these materials provided that users are made fully aware—defined in the bill as being informed prior to ordering and through delivery receipts—that the concrete may include recycled components. The intent behind this bill is to enhance clarity for consumers and suppliers in the concrete industry regarding the material content of products they utilize.
Contention
Given that AB 2844 essentially makes nonsubstantive changes to existing law, it appears to have limited points of contention at this stage. However, there could be ongoing discussions among industry stakeholders about the effectiveness of the current informing process and the potential for increasing or decreasing the market for recycled concrete materials. For advocates of recycling and sustainable construction practices, the clear communication about material composition could be a step in the right direction, while other critics may argue that the bill does not go far enough in stimulating more robust recycling incentives or regulations.
Solid waste recycling, advanced recycling defined, conversion of materials back to basis hydrocarbons, not waste disposal or incineration, Sec. 22-27-2 am'd.
Solid waste recycling, advanced recycling defined, conversion of materials back to basis hydrocarbons, not waste disposal or incineration, Sec. 22-27-2 am'd.