The Basics of Eco-Friendly Scrap Metal Salvaging

The summer inevitably brings hot, humid days, rainstorms, backyard barbecues, and evening baseball games. For thousands of families nationwide, the warm weather signals the time of year when you might be moving. For offices, the summer offers a few months when the physical move can occur. While it can be daunting to collect all your belongings, load them on a truck, and then unload them at a new destination, the moving experience doesn’t have to be all blood, sweat, and tears. Moving can be an opportunity to organize, eliminate the excess junk you don’t need, and even help serve the greater good. 

The benefits of recycling your scrap metal are relatively straightforward, and with some know-how, you’ll be well on your way.

Why Stay Eco-Friendly When Scrapping?

There are many types of metals worldwide, and each has its value and properties. When recycled, new metals can be produced with vastly less carbon emissions. In the case of aluminum, for example, recycling saves 80% of the energy needed to make it. Recycling translates to savings on the cost of production, which helps the US remain competitive in global metal exporting markets. 

Another simple reason to recycle scrap from your junk is to limit the extraction of metals in their raw form from drilling and mining. The potential and realized consequences of extensive drilling are hard to ignore: high carbon emissions, loss of natural habitats, and potential pollution.

Common Recyclable Metals and Where They Can Be Found:

  •  Copper – Copper, a non-ferrous metal, can be found in many appliances and machines and was the first metal ever used by humans more than 10,000 years ago. It is reddish-orange in hue, though it takes on a shade of green when it rusts. It can be found in:
    • electrical wiring for it’s excellent conduction ability
    • air conditioners 
    • various types of plumbing pipes 
  •  Aluminum – While less valuable than copper in its raw form, aluminum is found in many places around the home and the office, and, as previously mentioned, it saves 80% of the energy needed to produce it when recycled. Since the 1800s, aluminum has been abundant in building and construction. Aluminum, which dents easily, weighs one-third as much as copper and steel. It can be found in:
    • siding
    • roofing
    • gutters
    • window frames
    • light bulbs
    • door knobs
    • refrigerators 
    • phone lines
  •  Iron – Iron, an essential element of nature, is dense and usually magnetic. It is one of the most common elements on the planet. While silver-gray is fresh, iron corrodes relatively quickly compared to other metals, rusting to an orange, red-tinted color. Combined with Nickel, iron is used to make many alloy metals, like steel. Around the home, iron is typically found in:
    • older, heavier wares like stove tops
    • fireplaces
    • cast-iron skillets
    • old door handles
    • hinges, nails
    • many hand tools (saws, drills, hammers, etc.)
  •  Stainless Steel – Stainless, or corrosion-resistant, steel is 100% recyclable. It can be found in many industrial applications, such as cars, bridges, and buildings, but more humbly serves around the house. Lightweight and shining silver in color, stainless steel serves many practical purposes and is abundant; therefore, it isn’t worth much at the scrap yard in small amounts. It is found in:
    • washers and dryers
    • kitchen appliances 
    • on lamps, tables, or other shiny, well-made products
    • expensive cutlery
    • trash bins
    • swivel chairs
    • tables
    • other office furniture

Risks Of Improper Scrap Disposal

The risk of improper disposal of metals relates primarily to certain heavy metals – Lead, mercury, nickel, gold, and cadmium – which, when exposed to humans at high levels, can be potentially toxic. These metals are found in 

  • Computers
  • Batteries
  • The paint in older houses (in the case of lead)

Be sure to dispose of batteries and computers safely —don’t throw them in the trash to be disposed of in a landfill.

Why Eco-Scrapping Matters

The reasons to recycle your scrap metals are compelling and can be lucrative. If you have an old appliance that still works, consider selling or donating it before scrapping it for parts. Likewise with electronics, schools, and non-profits are always looking for working equipment, even if you are convinced it is too old to use. When handled by professionals in an organized, thoughtful manner, getting rid of old junk can be a therapeutic, revitalizing project. One that lets you enjoy the hot summer just a bit more helps contribute to a healthier planet and maybe puts some cash in your pocket.