By definition, the process of mining metal ore and turning it into usable metal is unsustainable.
Metal production involves the harmful removal of natural resources, land degradation, fossil fuel emission, wildlife destruction, and exhaustive energy and water use.
However, recycling scrap metal (old or used metal) can be done an infinite number of times with reduced environmentally friendly impact.
Here are 3 reasons why you should recycle your scrap metal:
1. Save Natural Resources
The amount of metal on earth is fixed, which means that one day we will eventually run out. By recycling scrap metals, we reduce the need to dig up precious natural resources, destroy wildlife habitats, clear large areas of trees, and cause damage to the soil.
According to the Bureau of International Recycling, for every one tone of steel we recycle, we save 1,100 kg of iron ore, 630 kg of coal, 55 kg of limestone, 287 L of oil, and 642 kWh of energy.
2. Reduce Pollution And Co2 Emissions
Every year the transportation of metal products requires a considerable amount of energy and fuel. From the mine site to the manufacturing facility, and the product dealer to the construction site, every vehicle requires fuel that is primarily sourced from non-renewable fossil fuels.
The negative effects of fossil fuel production include water pollution, air pollution, acid rain, fatal health conditions, global temperature increase, wildlife extinction, and more.
A recent study shows that fossil fuel burning has caused the CO2 concentration in the earth’s atmosphere to surpass 400 ppm for the first time in human history! If we cut down on metal production and simply recycled scrap metal instead, we could dramatically reduce this amount.
3. Reduce Landfill Space And Protect The Soil
Australians send enough steel to landfills every year to make 40,000 fridges. When metal products are dumped in landfills, instead of being properly recycled, toxic chemicals are leached into the soil. These chemicals destroy the soil’s integrity and contaminate the groundwater, thereby making it difficult for new plant life to grow.
Recycling your scrap metal is great for the planet. Give us a call today to find out how you could turn your scrap metal into cash!
Last updated on September 28th, 2023 at 05:27 am