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Copper holds great utility value and position in the different sectors of the economy, such as construction, electronics, transport, etc. Above all, the process of mining and extracting copper out of the Earth’s crust may result in a huge impact on environmental and social aspects.
However, over and above reducing the mining of copper by opting for recycling creates the added advantages of protecting our environment and the economy. In other words, here we have elaborated on the positive aspects of copper recycling that we must consider if we expect to be sustainable towards our planet.
1. Preserving Natural Resources
Recycling of copper is a way of saving the natural resources. Copper is a non-renewable natural resource that is extracted from the vast underground resources of the earth’s crust. The processes of extraction tend to be destructive to the habitats, causing water pollution, and land degradation.
The copper recycling diminishes the demand for new mining projects and, thus, saves the natural habitats from destruction. Besides, recycling extends the lifespan of the already existing copper reserves, thus guaranteeing that future generations will have access to this metal which is very important to them.
2. Energy Savings
Reprocessing copper consumes considerably less energy than the mining and processing of new copper ore. As the Copper Development Association states, recycling copper takes only 10-15% of the energy needed for the extraction of copper from its ore.
Through the cutting of the energy usage that is linked to the production of copper, recycling is in the way of the reduction of greenhouse gasses and hence it is a way to mitigate climate change. Besides, energy savings are the result to be sure for manufacturers and consumers while they have to save their money and therefore, recycled copper is a cheaper option.
3. Reduction of Waste
Copper is so strong and durable that it can be recycled over and over again without any changes to its properties or quality. By recycling copper scrap from the manufacturing processes, construction sites, and products that are at the end of their life, we can reduce the amount of waste that is sent to landfills and thus promote a circular economy. Recycling, in addition to the fact that it lowers the demand for new resources and thus decreases the environmental footprint of copper production, is also beneficial.
4. Economic Benefits
Copper recycling brings the economy to life as it not only creates jobs but also boosts revenue and promotes local industries. The recycling centers have workers to sort out, process, and refine the copper scrap, thus, they provide people with jobs in communities across the globe.
Besides, the buying of recycled copper creates income for scrap dealers, manufacturers, and the businesses that are involved in the recycling supply chain. Through the encouragement of a strong recycling sector, we can generate economic growth and help build a more sustainable and resilient economy.
5. Environmental Protection
Copper recycling is beneficial for the environment in many ways, such as reducing air and water pollution, saving water resources, and protecting ecosystems. Mining and processing of copper ore can be a source of many harmful pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and heavy metals that can be released into the environment.
Thus, recycling copper instead of extracting it from ore will be a way to lessen the environmental damage and safeguard the air and water quality.
