Demolition of the 43-year-old student union building was completed this week to make way for a larger, more modern and greener complex paid for with student fees.
Crews are now separating building materials such as concrete and metal to haul off for recycling.
More than 150 tons were hauled away for recycling.
San Diego State University Associated Student Body President Cody Barbo said the $100 million project was approved by students two years ago.
He said when finished in 2013, the new facility will have a lot of energy saving or "green" features.
"Underground storage tanks for water and rain collection, green roofs, we'll have actual grass on parts of the roof, and as well as a radiant floor system," said Barbo. "I'd say my favorite green feature is probably going to be the solar panels which are 342 kilowatt solar panels that we are currently installing on parking structure one."
He said the rooftop vegetation lowers greenhouse gas emissions and the water collected will be used for landscaping.
Barbo said the foundation for the new structure is expected to be poured in October, with the steel framework rising next February.
The new Aztec Student Union will be twice the size of the now-demolished Aztec Center, with a larger Montezuma Hall, a multi-purpose theater, a state-of-the-art bowling and games center, a fitness center, space for student organizations and dining facilities.
Barbo said students will pay a $94 per semester fee beginning in Fall 2013 to pay for the new center.
He said when finished and open in 2013, the new facility will be the "crown jewel" of the SDSU campus.
