Recycling of scrap metal has become increasingly important for ensuring judicious use, and efficient management of limited resources. Industry experts at Aastha Minmet India Pvt Ltd say, “If you consider the large-scale global scrap metal recycling industry, you’ll be amazed by its size and scope.”
According to the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI), the United States recycles 150 million metric tons of scrap materials annually, including 85 million tons of iron and steel, 5.5 million tons of aluminum, 1.8 million tons of copper, 2 million tons of stainless steel, 1.2 million tons of lead and 420,000 tons of zinc. Various other metals such as chrome, brass, bronze, magnesium, and tin are recycled as well.
A number of studies have highlighted that it is way easier and convenient to recycle scraps of metal left over, as compared to producing new metals from scratch. Listed below are some of the benefits offered by scrap metal recycling:
- Environmental Benefits
Recycling scrap metal is effective in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. A huge amount of greenhouse gas are emitted in the production of metals. As per the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI), recycling metal helps in reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 300 million to 500 million tons.It also reduces the need for mining virgin ore.
According to the National Institute of Health, using scrap metal in lieu of virgin ore generates 97% less mining waste and uses 40% less water. It is estimated that majority of the iron and steel used in foundries is recycled scrap. For copper, majority of the proportion comes from recycled materials. Recycled copper is believed to have the same value as new copper.
- Energy Conservation
A significant amount of energy is saved by using recycled scrap metals. It is estimated to be 92% for aluminium, 90% copper and 56%, steel in comparison with virgin ore.
As per the US Environmental Protection Agency, recycling a single aluminium beverage helps in conserving great amount of energy. The energy saved can power a 60-watt light bulb for almost five hours. The survey of the US Geological showed that 60% of steel production comes directly from recycled iron and steel scrap.
- Economic Benefits
The National Recycling Coalition estimates that recycling industry generates around $236 billion annually, and employs more than 1million workers across the US. It creates 36 times more jobs and has majorly contributed in resolving the issue of global warming.
Metal recycling also conserves natural resources, says the research team analyst at Aastha Minmet India Pvt Ltd. Recycling of 1ton of steel conserves 2,500 pounds of iron ore, 1,400 pounds of coal and 120 pounds of limestone.Metal recycling also conserves natural resources, which is highly beneficial for the economy. Recycling 1 ton of steel conserves 2,500 pounds of iron ore, 1,400 pounds of coal and 120 pounds of limestone.
Certainly, the wide-ranging benefits offered by recycling scrap metal emphasize its need for ensuring sustainable development of the society.
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