Copper is among the top most consumed minerals in the world. It is highly valued because of its flexibility, enabling it to handle physical alterations without breaking. It is also malleable, corrosion-resistant, has antimicrobial properties that help it prevent infections, and is a crucial macronutrient for plants. Copper has many uses, including producing electrical cables because of its unparalleled electrical conductivity compared to other metals. It is also used to manufacture transport equipment, building and construction products, and industrial machinery. 

What is Copper Recycling? 

Copper recycling is the recovery of used copper material and using it to make new components. Copper is among the few minerals that can be recycled multiple times while maintaining its performance and value. The quality of recycled copper and mined copper is relatively the same. The demand for copper has been rising due to the increase in copper use in clean energy and innovative technologies. Copper recycling and recovery have helped meet the demand and create a sustainable copper supply. Recycled copper has several benefits, including:

It is Environmentally Friendly

Copper is a trace element crucial for plant health hence the need to have some remain in its natural state. When mining copper, harmful substances such as sulfur dioxide combine with water and air in the atmosphere to form acid rain, which causes deforestation and acidic water, which harms aquatic life. Additionally, extracting copper from its ore requires more energy than recycling it.

Boosts the Economy

Recycling copper is cheaper than mining it. As a result, it helps reduce the cost of copper products used in plumbing and electrical work. Recycling helps the country maintain self-sufficiency which is excellent for the economy. Additionally, recycling plants create job opportunities, contributing to the country's financial system in multiple ways. According to reports, the United States will have created 1.5 million jobs by 2030 once it achieves a 75% recycling rate.

Protects Natural Resources

There are only limited amounts of copper available. According to research, only 12% of copper has been mined. It's not advisable to deplete the available copper reserves; recycling the already mined copper is the best option to protect the reserves. Additionally, copper and alloy objects that are not recyclable are dumped in ground holes known as landmines. With time, the landmines fill up, becoming scarce and an expensive option for waste disposal. These landmines contain harmful substances which eventually pollute the soil. 

Looking For a Copper Recycling Yard?

If you have old copper from electrical wires, plumbing pipes, or other household appliances, don't throw them in the trash can. Take them to a scrap yard near you for recycling. They will buy the metal from you enabling you to earn extra cash, conserve the environment, and boost your country's economy.