In today’s rapidly evolving industrial world, the spotlight is shifting toward sustainability, and the recycling sector is leading the charge. At the center of this transformation is the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries, Inc. (ISRI), the leading voice and advocate for the $117 billion U.S. recycling industry.
At American Dirt Exchange, we support sustainable solutions across the construction and material handling industries. That’s why we’re shining a light on the importance of organizations like ISRI and the work they’re doing to promote environmental responsibility, resource efficiency, and domestic economic growth.
What Is ISRI?
The Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI) is a national trade association representing more than 1,300 companies in the recycling industry. These companies process, broker, and consume scrap commodities, including metal, paper, electronics, plastics, glass, rubber, and more.
ISRI plays a vital role in:
- Setting safety standards and best practices
- Shaping legislation and trade policy
- Promoting the value of scrap as a raw material
- Educating the public and professionals about the economic and environmental impact of recycling
Why ISRI Matters to Contractors, Builders, and Site Managers
For those of us in construction, infrastructure, and demolition, ISRI’s advocacy work impacts everything from dumping regulations to scrap metal resale value.
Partnering with reputable recyclers and staying informed about ISRI-supported practices can:
- Lower your site disposal costs
- Improve safety and compliance
- Add new revenue streams through recyclable waste
- Support LEED and ESG building standards
Environmental and Economic Impact of Recycling
According to ISRI:
- Recycling 337 million metric tons of materials annually supports over 500,000 U.S. jobs
- Recycled materials reduce emissions, conserve water, and cut energy use by up to 95% (especially with aluminum and copper)
- The industry contributes more than $12 billion in tax revenues each year
That means every time your team reuses, recycles, or resells site waste, you’re part of a system that supports national independence and protects our planet.
How We Align with ISRI’s Mission
At American Dirt Exchange, we process construction waste like unsuitable dirt and concrete debris, and we advocate for smarter waste management on every project. We believe in turning waste into opportunity, just as ISRI does for recyclers across the U.S.
When we recycle and reuse materials such as:
- Scrap steel and aluminum
- Concrete aggregate
- Topsoil and fill dirt
We reduce the need for imports, cut transportation emissions, and save contractors real money.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Scrap Recycling
ISRI continues to lead conversations about:
- Global trade policy and scrap exports
- Recycling innovation and automation
- Sustainable product design
- Policy changes affecting the recycling chain
As policies shift and environmental standards tighten, ISRI’s guidance will help businesses like ours—and yours, adapt, stay compliant, and remain profitable.
Ready to Take Recycling Seriously?
Whether you’re a contractor looking to dispose of Hydrovac waste, a builder sourcing screened dirt, or a demo crew hauling rebar, we can help.
Join us in building smarter, cleaner, and more profitable job sites.
Email: info@americandirtexchange.com
Call: (404) 474-3024
Visit us: 3322 Grant Rd, Conley, GA 30288
