Across Australia, the call for sustainability is on the rise as we watch the changes in the environment around us. Metal recycling is part of this sustainability response, promising a future where valuable resources are reborn, not discarded, lessening environmental pressure to mine for virgin ore for metal forging. 

As much as these potential green pathways are tempting, effective policy and legislation are required to ensure these developments happen safely and don’t go on to do harm. Let’s explore how these frameworks shape “how to recycle metal” in Australia, driving us towards a greener tomorrow.

One key policy in Australia is the Product Stewardship Act 2011 (NSW). This act assigns responsibility for product end-of-life management to manufacturers and distributors. This in turn encourages them to design products that are easily disassembled and recycled, rather than designing products that will be thrown out. From discarded car batteries to obsolete electronics, Elite Recyclers, with our decades of experience and advanced processing facilities, are a trusted partner for manufacturers fulfilling this responsibility.

Another vital legislative tool is the National Waste Policy 2020. This policy sets ambitious national targets for resource recovery, including metal recycling. It also promotes container deposit schemes (CDS) in all states and territories, allowing you to recycle aluminium cans, spirit and wine bottles, and receive a handy cash back.

Beyond financial incentives, Australia’s Environment Protection Act 1997 (Cth) plays a vital role in ensuring responsible and safe recycling practices. This act governs the handling and transportation of hazardous materials, protecting both workers and the environment. At Elite Recyclers, safety and environmental responsibility are core values. Our strict adherence to these regulations ensures the ethical and sustainable recovery of metals, minimising environmental impact and safeguarding human health.

However, policy and legislation are not always enough, and public awareness and education are always important when you want to increase sustainability awareness. Initiatives like the Australian Packaging Covenant (APC) aim to educate consumers about responsible waste management and how to recycle metal effectively. 

Looking ahead, Australia’s commitment to innovation promises to revolutionise metal recycling. The National Recycling Technology Investment Initiative (NRTII) invests in cutting-edge technologies, from AI-powered sorting systems to novel processing techniques. At Elite Recyclers, we are always investigating these new technologies, allowing us to make a greater impact in the world of metal recycling.

At the end of the day, one of the simplest ways to recycle metal is to turn your scrap into cash with Elite Metal Recyclers. We happily take and recycle a range of metals including steel, copper, brass, aluminium and more, including miscellaneous items such as air conditioners. We also sell steel seconds for those who are seeking affordable means of sourcing materials for a project.

Talk to us today about our metal recycling process.