Hope, uncertainty and enthusiasm in 2023

Uncertainty is the one certainty as we look ahead to 2023. With continuing inflation and concerns about a possible recession, the year might not be an easy one for the overall economy.

However, there is reason for hope in the demolition space, according to industry veteran Scott Homrich, who is president of the Washington-based National Demolition Association (NDA) and CEO of the Carleton, Michigan-based demolition firm Homrich.

He says the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law includes $21 billion to address brownfield and Superfund sites, which should drive demand for demolition work. Federal funding of various infrastructure projects could soften the blow for the industry if the nation does experience a recession. Read more about Homrich’s outlook for the industry in 2023 in our article titled “Bolstered by spending.”

While work might be plentiful, prices for materials and the supply chain for parts and equipment are still in a state of tumult. Homrich says some NDA members have had to wait more than a year for large machinery.

For those looking to buy or sell machinery, one of the world’s largest construction equipment events is fast approaching. ConExpo-Con/Agg returns March 14-18 to Las Vegas. Organized by the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, the event showcases the latest in construction and demolition (C&D) equipment.

The event, which takes place every three years, is back for the first time since 2020. Recycling Today Media Group Senior Editor Brian Taylor offers readers a more detailed preview of the event in the feature “Time for a reset.” Although ConExpo-Con/Agg had to end its show a day early in 2020 because of concerns related to COVID-19, many regarded that year’s convention as a success, and manufacturers say they are excited to showcase their work over the past three years at this year’s event.

Successful companies during the past three years have had to adapt to changing circumstances. One company that has evolved over the years is Bee Green Recycling & Supply, Oakland, California, the subject of our cover story, “Expanding the hive.”

Josh and Deborah Fookes founded Bee Green in the wake of the Great Recession as Commercial Waste & Recycling. Over the years, it has developed into a major C&D recycler in the Bay Area that produces a variety of landscaping supplies from recycled materials, such as concrete and wood.

While retaining the company’s focus on providing C&D companies a place to recycle their materials, Bee Green also has become a dealer of several brands of landscaping equipment, including Husqvarna, in response to the needs of its customers.