Dive Brief:

• Waste Management announced that it will shutter its construction and demolition plant in Auburn, Wash.

• The facility was purchased by the waste company in 2010 and was regarded as a way to solidify the company's stance on environmentally-friendly and sustainable practices.

• The company cited current economic conditions were a key factor in its decision to close, while it is speculated that unresolved regulatory problems may have played a role as well.

Dive Insight:

Waste Management was issued a notice from the Environmental Health Services Division of Public Health of Seattle & King County, which noted many environmental issues that needed to be addressed. The company will meet with potential new owners of the facility in an attempt to keep the recycling plant open for surrounding counties, but right now its No. 1 priority seems to be getting rid of the place.