Transforming Infrastructure: How Blackwood Solutions Recycles Concrete Utility Poles

With over 150 million utility poles supporting North America’s electrical and telecommunications networks, concrete poles stand out for their durability. However, when these poles are retired, their disposal poses challenges. Blackwood Solutions is revolutionizing the industry by recycling concrete utility poles efficiently and sustainably. Here’s how they do it and why it matters.

The Case for Concrete Utility Poles

Made from gravel, sand, cement, and water, concrete utility poles are stronger than wood or steel, resisting rot, rust, and fire. Their durability makes them ideal for harsh environments like coastal areas or regions prone to extreme weather. Yet, their size and weight complicate disposal. Without proper recycling, retired poles can clutter utility yards or end up in landfills, harming the environment.

Blackwood’s Expertise in Concrete Recycling

Based in Bloomington, Indiana, Blackwood Solutions has been a trusted utility partner since 2017, recycling over 400,000 tons of materials with no environmental issues. Their concrete recycling services are central to their mission of delivering sustainable solutions. Blackwood stands out with:

• Advanced Equipment: Their fleet includes specialized trucks, log-loaders, and cranes designed for heavy concrete poles.

• Safety First: Blackwood has recycled over 250,000 feet of concrete poles with a flawless safety record.

• Customized Programs: They work with clients to design recycling plans that cut costs and meet sustainability goals.

How Blackwood Recycles Concrete Poles

Blackwood’s recycling process is efficient and eco-friendly:

1. Collection: Grapple trucks and boom trucks safely collect fire-resistant concrete poles, often left standing after disasters like wildfires.

2. Transportation: Self-unloading trucks transport poles to processing facilities, reducing on-site labor costs.

3. Material Recovery: At transloading yards, poles are broken down into reusable components like aggregate for construction or landscaping.

4. Sustainability Reporting: Blackwood provides clients with reports on the environmental impact of their recycling programs.

   
   

The Benefits of Partnering with Blackwood

Choosing Blackwood for concrete pole recycling offers:

• Efficiency: Self-unloading trucks and skilled operators streamline operations, saving time and resources.

• Environmental Responsibility: Recycling prevents landfill waste and repurposes materials for a circular economy.

• Reliability: With over 8,000 loads hauled in 2024, Blackwood ensures timely and safe delivery.

  
  

A Real-World Example

During Hurricanes Helene and Milton, Blackwood excelled in delivering and recycling poles while assisting with material management and storm kit restocking. Their “Serve First” and “Deliver Excellence” values earned client praise, showcasing their commitment to teamwork and safety.

Looking Ahead

As utilities strive to modernize infrastructure and meet sustainability goals, recycling concrete utility poles is a practical step forward. Blackwood Solutions’ expertise, innovative equipment, and dedication to excellence make them an ideal partner for managing retired poles responsibly.

Recycling concrete utility poles benefits both utilities and the environment, reducing waste and supporting sustainable infrastructure. Blackwood Solutions leads the way with safe, efficient, and eco-friendly recycling services, helping utilities achieve their sustainability and logistics goals.