Steel is one of the most used metals in the world today. And it’s one of the most recycled! But why should steel and other scrap metal be recycled on a regular basis? Keep reading to find out.
Conserving Resources
For every ton of stainless steel or galvanized steel recycled, almost 2,500 pounds of iron ore, 1,400 pounds of coal, and 120 pounds of limestone are conserved. If it weren’t for steel recycling, all of those resources would be depleted much faster, and they’re not infinite. In addition, recycling steel and other metals results in much less mining waste, as additional ore doesn’t even need to be harvested with recycled material available.
Reuse!
You know the motto. Reuse just so happens to be one of the most important parts! The more steel that’s recycled, the more stainless steel strapping a steel supplier can create without any additional resources wasted. In fact, things like stainless steel strapping, steel beams for homes and buildings, and a myriad of other structures can be built with recycled material.
Saving Energy
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, recycling a single aluminum can could conserve enough energy to power a 60-watt light bulb for almost four hours. Can you imagine what would happen if we all took the time to recycle one metal can every day? Producing steel and other metals from virgin ore takes a lot of time and energy. Simply recycling those already refined materials could save a hefty amount of that energy in the long run.
Job Creation
Did you know that recycling metal can actually create jobs? That’s right. In fact, the National Recycling Coalition says the recycling industry employs more than a million people across America. The more jobs that open up in a sustainable environment, the better off the planet, and all of those industries, will be.
Recycling metal might not be something you think about every day, but a simple act can contribute to all of the causes listed above and more. Whether it’s scrap metal from an old car or all of your old soda cans, recycling metal can really make a difference.
