Recycling Copper: Why It Matters

To date, only about 12% of known copper resources have been mined. However, copper ore is a finite resource and it makes sense to conserve ore by recycling. It is cheaper to recycle old copper than to mine and extract new copper. Among all metals that are regularly recycled in large quantity, copper retains the most worth even after its initial form has reached its peak.  But just how much worth does copper retain when it’s recycled? In perspective, where aluminum only holds up to 25% of its original worth, recycled copper is worth up to 90% of the cost of the original copper. With that in mind, what are some other ways that reusing old copper benefits us?

• Reducing the volume copper alloys being taken to the landfill cuts down on landfill costs and ensures a further use and ultimately prolongs worldwide copper reserves.
• By recycling refined copper proactively, we are cutting down on the amount of raw copper needed to be mined in order to meet market demand; minimalizing the negative effects to major wildlife ecosystems and the environment as a whole.
• Copper recycling has even greater impacts on energy consumption. Drastic cutbacks on CO2 emissions by reducing the use of fossil fuels, natural gas and coal in order to refine raw copper.

With copper wiring found within the walls of our homes and securing connections in many of our household appliances, the impact of copper is all around us.  You can do your part in ensuring the future of copper as a viable resource by simply taking the time to recycle any outdated household tech upon replacement.

If you have any copper you would like to recycle, look no further than WV Cashin!  We’ll give you our best offer per pound! Contact us for questions concerning eligible items that contain copper parts and wiring.