SUSTAINABILITY
The Role of Metal Recycling Metal is at the heart of UK manufacturing, forming the backbone of industries from automotive and aerospace to construction and consumer goods. The good news for businesses is that virtually all metals can be recycled into high-quality new materials, as sustainable waste management expert Waste Mission explains.
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ith the UK recycling around 10 million tonnes of metal annually, metal recovery plays a crucial role in driving a circular economy and reducing industrial waste. With the landfill tax increasing in April 2025, the financial case for recycling is stronger than ever. Metal recycling not only diverts valuable resources from landfill but also aligns with the circular economy principles that are becoming increasingly important in regulatory and consumer landscapes.
Why metal recycling matters Recycling metals offers multiple benefits, from cost savings to reduced environmental impact. According to EU figures, using recycled steel instead of virgin material cuts air pollution by 86%, water use by 40%, and water pollution by 76%. For manufacturers, this means lower raw material costs, reduced carbon footprints, and enhanced sustainability credentials.
Environmental impact Scrap metal recycling is a powerful asset for environmental conservation. It saves energy, minimises the use of natural resources, and reduces CO2 emissions. For instance, recycling copper saves significant energy, requiring just a tenth of the energy needed to extract the source material. Similarly, recycling aluminium can save up to 80% of the energy used to produce it initially.
Economic advantages You can make money from scrap metal by transforming it into valuable resources,
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enabling businesses to generate revenue from materials that might otherwise be discarded. Utilising recycled metals also reduces production costs, helping businesses to stay competitive.
Common metals’ recycling potential Aluminium is one of the most recycled metals globally. Recycled aluminium retains its properties indefinitely and requires just 5% of the energy used in primary production. Steel is the most widely used metal in the world, with over 3,500 grades available. Steel is also one of the most recycled materials, with a 98% recovery rate. Copper is a vital component in electrical wiring, plumbing, and industrial machinery. It is 100% recyclable; 60% of all copper ever mined is still used today. Brass & Bronze. Used in bearings, gears, and decorative fixtures, these alloys retain their durability and corrosion resistance even after multiple recycling cycles. Lead is a heavy metal commonly found in batteries, roofing, and radiation shielding. Due to its toxicity, lead disposal in landfills is illegal, but it remains one of the most efficiently recycled metals.
Partnering with Waste Mission Waste Mission houses many specialist recycling divisions. Its carbide division focuses on recycling carbide by breaking it down into a powder, which can then be used to make new carbide products. Its WEEE division safely disposes of and recycles unwanted electronics. Disposing of these items incorrectly can lead to hazardous substances leaking out or potentially releasing toxic substances such
as mercury and cadmium, which can be problematic for human health. Waste Mission also has a cable recycling division that strips the cables to remove valuable metals, mostly aluminium and copper. These metals are melted down and repurposed into new products.
Why recycle metal? Deloitte’s ‘2023 Sustainable Consumer’ survey1 revealed that 30% of consumers had stopped buying products due to ethical or sustainability-related concerns. Additionally, almost 63% see circularity as an important buying factor according to Reso Insights. With the rising demand for eco-friendly products, businesses must answer the dual call of conscience and commerce. By prioritising metal recycling, UK manufacturers play a crucial role in reducing industrial waste, conserving natural resources, and building a future that’s a few shades greener. Speak to Waste Mission today to book a waste review. wastemission.com deloitte.com/uk/en/Industries/consumer/perspectives/the-
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