During the summer of 2019-20, South Australia experienced some of its worst bushfires on record, which caused extensive damage to various areas, including Adelaide Hills, Kangaroo Island, Yorke Peninsula, and the South East. The bushfires resulted in the need to clean up waste from 541 properties, some of which were so severely damaged that they had to be demolished. Unfortunately, this led to increased construction and demolition (C&D) waste being sent to landfills, mainly due to the presence of asbestos in these properties. The bushfires in Kangaroo Island and Adelaide Hills accounted for almost 50,000 tonnes of scrap metal waste generated. Since then, many scrap metal recyclers in Adelaide have successfully recycled a lot of waste metal in the city and around.
However, many people don’t realise that scrap metal can be a valuable resource with many benefits when recycled. This article will explore the benefits of scrap metal recycling and how it can contribute to a more sustainable future.
Economic Benefits
One of the most significant benefits of scrap metal recycling is its economic impact. Recycling scrap metal reduces the need for new raw materials, creates jobs, and contributes to local economies.
Furthermore, recycling scrap metal can be more cost-effective than mining new materials. For example, the process of recycling aluminium cans utilises a mere 5% of the energy necessary to manufacture fresh aluminium from bauxite ore. This translates to significant savings on energy costs, which can ultimately be passed on to consumers.
Environmental Benefits
In addition to its economic benefits, scrap metal recycling also positively impacts the environment. When scrap metal is left to decompose in landfills, it can release harmful chemicals into the soil and groundwater. By recycling scrap metal, one can reduce the amount of waste going into landfills and prevent the release of toxic materials into the environment.
Recycling scrap metal also conserves natural resources and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Mining and refining new metals requires a significant amount of energy and often involves the destruction of natural habitats. By using recycled metals instead of new raw materials, one can reduce the energy required for production and minimise the impact on the environment.
Social Benefits
Scrap metal recycling also has social benefits, particularly for communities that have been historically underserved. According to a report by the Environmental Protection Agency, scrap metal recycling facilities are often located in low-income neighbourhoods and communities of colour. By supporting the recycling industry, one can create jobs and economic opportunities in these communities and promote greater equity.
Furthermore, recycling scrap metal can also promote community engagement and education. Many recycling facilities offer tours and educational programs that help people understand the importance of recycling and how it can benefit their communities.
Challenges and Solutions
Despite its many benefits, scrap metal recycling also faces several challenges. One of the biggest challenges is contamination, as scrap metal can become contaminated with other materials that make it difficult to recycle. Additionally, some types of scrap metal, such as lead-acid batteries, require special handling and disposal due to their potential toxicity.
Recycling facilities use various techniques to sort and clean scrap metal to address these challenges. For example, magnetised conveyor belts can be used to separate ferrous metals from non-ferrous metals, while air classifiers can remove contaminants like plastics and rubber.
Scrap metal recycling is an essential part of a more sustainable future. By hiring scrap metal recyclers in Adelaide, one can reduce the amount of waste going into landfills, conserve natural resources, and create economic opportunities. Additionally, recycling scrap metal can help promote greater equity by creating jobs and economic opportunities in underserved communities. While there are certainly challenges to overcome, the benefits of scrap metal recycling make it an important industry to support and promote.
