MAR 04, 2025
Almost all metals can be recycled. However, some stand out due to their high recycling rates. In this blog post, RCM Recycling—a top-rated scrap metal recycling company—walks you through the most recycled metals and their uses. This post will boost your general knowledge and help you get started with your own recycling efforts.
Steel is the most recycled metal worldwide, thanks to its characteristics. It is estimated that about 81% of steel is recycled globally. It comes as no surprise given its durability and abundance. Steel is used to make almost everything, from roofing and cladding to creating beams, automobiles, railways, food cans, furniture, and many more. This metal retains its strength and durability even after multiple recycling processes. This makes it a highly sustainable material. Recycling steel is a great way to reduce waste and help protect the environment.
It is estimated that about 70% of copper in circulation comes from recycled copper scrap. Copper retains its properties indefinitely, regardless of how many times it’s recycled. It’s relatively easy to recycle and can be worth up to 90% of its original value. Recycled copper is valuable for electrical wiring, appliances, telecommunications, construction, and many other applications. If you have old appliances, plumbing equipment, and electrical wiring taking up space in your house, look for scrap metal buyers in your area and make a quick buck.
Aluminum is considered the second most recycled metal because of its infinite recyclability. It can be recycled over and over again without losing its structural integrity. Aluminum is melted at high temperatures and poured into molds to create ingots or other shapes. Recycled aluminum is used to make beverage cans, automotive parts, aircraft components, window frames, and many more. Aluminum is truly a champion of sustainability, as it never leaves the circular economy.
Known for its malleability, conductive properties, and resistance to corrosion, brass is one of the most recycled metals. It’s made from copper and zinc. Brass is a popular material for use in wiring, electronics, plumbing, roofing, heat exchangers, and more. This metal is commonly recycled from plumbing fixtures, hardware, electrical components, musical instruments, ammunition casings, and decorative items. If you have any of these items in your home, consider taking them to a scrap metal recycling company.
Iron is a key part of steel production, making it one of the most recycled metals globally. Its magnetic nature simplifies its separation from mixed waste. Recycled steel is then repurposed in many sectors, including construction, automotive manufacturing, and packaging.
Tin's primary application is as a protective coating, notably in tinplate cans. Recycling tin is necessary, even though it may be more complex than iron recycling. The process involves separating the tin layer from the steel base. Recovering tin contributes to resource conservation and generates energy savings compared to producing tin from ore. Therefore, even though tin is used in smaller quantities than iron, it is still very important to recycle it.
Zinc's versatility is evident in its use for galvanizing steel. Zinc recycling boasts a high end-of-life recovery rate, meaning a substantial portion of zinc is reclaimed when products reach their disposal stage. This efficient recycling loop minimizes the environmental impact of zinc production and its applications, including batteries and various industrial products.
At RCM Recycling, we provide homeowners and businesses with a simple way to dispose of their scrap metal. We accept a wide range of ferrous and non-ferrous metals and offer competitive prices for your scrap metal. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how you can contribute to a more sustainable future through scrap metal recycling.
