ConservationofCopper

Only about 12 percent of known copper sources have been mined, but since copper is a nonrenewable resource, recycling contributes to conservation. Copper is 100 percent recyclable, and recycled copper retains up to 90 percent of the original copper’s cost. Mining new copper can damage the land surrounding the mine. Because recycling copper reduces the need to mine for new copper, it lessens the impact on the environment.

Landfill

Without recycling, valuable copper scrap would end up in landfills, which are becoming too full to accommodate more waste. The demand for space in landfills is high, making the cost of dumping waste very expensive. Additionally, buried metals like copper could contribute to environmental harm, including contamination of groundwater resources. Recycling copper keeps it from ending up in landfills and causing environmental damage.