Metal recycling plays a crucial role in promoting sustainability and reducing the strain on our planet’s finite resources – now, more than ever. Unfortunately, there are several myths and misconceptions surrounding metal recycling that often stop individuals from fully grasping just how great a process it is. Is it worth the effort? Will the scrap metal you drop off at a scrap yard be put to good use, or will it end up forgotten and rusting?

Here are some scrap metal facts and how we can put old metal to good use.

Fact: metal recycling is a highly valuable and worthwhile endeavour due to just how useful metal can be. Metals such as aluminium, copper, steel, and brass can be recycled endlessly without losing their properties. Recycling metal also helps to conserve natural resources whilst also saving energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions caused by both the mining and manufacturing processes. For example, recycling aluminium requires only about 5% of the energy needed to produce new aluminium from raw materials. Moreover, the scrap metal industry contributes significantly to the global economy, creating jobs and fostering sustainable growth.

Fact: while it’s true that many metals can be recycled, not all metals are created equal when it comes to the recycling process. Commonly recycled metals include aluminium, copper, steel, and iron, as they are abundant and have well-established recycling infrastructure. However, among lesser known scrap metal facts is that certain metals such as mercury and lead require specialised recycling methods due to their hazardous nature. It is important to dispose of such metals responsibly to prevent environmental contamination. If you’re unsure of how to do so yourself, contact your local metal recycling specialists for more information.

Fact: metal recycling is not limited to large-scale industrial operations and is certainly encouraged amongst communities of all sizes! Metal recycling can be taken up by individuals, households, and small businesses as well. Many recycling centres accept metal items such as cans, appliances, car parts, and even small electronic devices. Ferrous and non-ferrous materials are always welcome.

By separating metal waste from general trash and placing it in designated recycling bins or taking it to a nearby recycling facility, individuals can contribute to the recycling process and promote sustainability in their communities.

Fact: recycling metal is actually a pretty straightforward process. Most communities have designated recycling centres or collection points where individuals can drop off their metal waste. Many recycling centres even offer pick-up services for large or heavy metal items, or you can even hire a skip bin to deposit your scrap metal before it’s collected and processed. All the hard work is done for you!

Fact: metal recycling has a deeply positive impact on the environment, and is one of the most important scrap metal facts. Extracting and refining metals from raw materials requires substantial energy and often leads to environmental degradation, especially in the areas surrounding mines. But by recycling metal, the demand for new mineral extraction drastically drops, which in turn helps to conserve natural resources, reducing  the destruction of ecosystems, and minimising pollution. Additionally, metal recycling helps to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.

Fact: one of the biggest misconceptions is that recycling metal yields little to no financial benefit. This couldn’t be further from the truth! One of the top scrap metal facts is that, in reality, recycling metal can earn you some decent money. Many types of scrap metal have a monetary value, and recycling centres and scrap yards often pay individuals or businesses for their metal waste. Copper is a particularly valuable example. 

The price of scrap metal varies depending on a few factors, including market demand and conditions. By recycling metal, you can not only contribute to the environment but also potentially earn some extra cash.

Looking to scrap your metals? Or perhaps purchase scrap metal in bulk at a discounted price? Talk to our team today and find out if we can help you make a bit of money from any scrap you’ve got lying around.