Scrap metal is a valuable, widely available resource that can be repurposed for further use again and again to create new materials or products. Everything from household appliances and furniture components, to soft-drink cans, vehicles and cookware can be recycled as scrap metal. These are broken down into two categories: ferrous (Alloy steel, carbon steel, cast iron, wrought iron) and non-ferrous (aluminum, copper, lead, silver) which is separated using various machinery before being transported to the nearest recycling centre - ready to be melted down and manufactured into something new.
But what are the main benefits of recycling metal? Let’s take a look!
Diverts waste from landfills
The most obvious benefit is that it helps reduce the amount of metal that ends up in landfills and incinerators. These devastate the surrounding environment due to their limited capacity. By recycling metal, we can discourage illegal dumping and reduce the risk of exposure to the toxic effects of heavy metals like cadmium and mercury.
Environmental benefits
Recycling metal also cuts down on the amount of greenhouse gas emissions that are released into the atmosphere. It also uses far less energy than creating virgin metal materials from mining, which conserves essential natural resources in the process such as iron ore and coal. Therefore, utilizing recycled metal waste is way more efficient and requires fewer raw materials to create the same product.
Another environmental benefit is that recycling metals like copper and aluminum can help prevent groundwater contamination. This is because the process to make these metals includes using large amounts of chemicals that can pollute our waterways.
Good for the economy
Finally, one of the other main benefits of recycling metal is the financial and economical rewards it brings. It creates thousands of jobs and local investment in the recycling industry, and helps keep costs down for manufacturers who use recycled metals in their products.
Commercial scrap metal recycling can save you time and money too by reducing disposal costs, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your business.
These are just some of the many benefits of recycling metal, but there are even more ways that it helps us improve our communities and protect our environment for future generations.
Mobile scrap metal services for 2022
Clear My Scrap is at the forefront of the scrap metal industry thanks to the convenience of mobile scales which allows us to weigh your non-ferrous metals and materials on-the-go and provide an instant payment in return.
If you’re in need of a professional, affordable and most of all reliable scrap metal recycling service in Manchester, including Altrincham and Warrington for the New Year, speak to a member of our team today to book a quote.
