ReMA Participates in Cross-Industry Dialogue on Battery Management at Construction & Demolition Conference

Cheryl Coleman, ReMA’s Senior Vice President, Advocacy, Safey and Sustainability attended and participated in the 2026 Construction & Demolition Recycling Association (CDRA) Conference & Tradeshow held in Tampa, Florida from January 27-29.

“As the leading voice for the recycled materials industry, it’s important for ReMA to be present at CDRA’s annual conference,” Coleman said. “When aligned sectors collaborate and share knowledge, we reduce confusion, strengthen safety outcomes, and ensure consistent, practical messages reach the professionals managing material streams on the ground.”

The annual conference brings together professionals in the construction and demolition recycling sector and aligns with CDRA’s mission and values of advancing the industry. They influence the future of recycling, and collaborate with leading recycling professionals, vendors, and stakeholders to share knowledge and experience.

Coleman participated on a panel called “Managing the Threat of Battery Fires” along with Michael E. Hoffman, President and CEO at the National Waste & Recycling Association (NWRA), Kristyn Oldendorf, Senior Director of Public Policy and Communications at the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA). The panel was moderated by John Thomas, CDRA President and Managing Partner.

The panelists discussed the efforts they are undertaking to address the threat of battery fires in waste and recycling operations.

“One of the key takeaways from the CDRA Conference & Tradeshow is how quickly battery-related safety risks are intersecting with construction and demolition materials,” Coleman said. “This event brings together operators, recyclers, and solution providers who are sharing real-world experience and practical approaches to managing those risks before they result in fires or other catastrophic incidents.”