You find copper in many products like computers, cars, electrical items, and wires. So, the demand for copper is high. Nonetheless, copper is a non-renewable source, so copper ores get depleted with every mine. Also, the process used to extract copper is invasive and consumes a lot of energy.

Copper scrap recycling reduces the need to mine new copper, conserving the environment. Explore three environmental benefits of copper recycling below.

1. Less Acid Rain

Copper doesn't exist in its elemental form but in more complex forms like copper sulfide. To get copper, the sulfur has to be removed from the compound with chemical processes that leave toxic by-products. For example, sulfur oxide combines with water to form sulfuric acid, a major component in acid rain.

Acid rain accelerates corrosion, shifts sensitive pH levels for aquatic life, and distracts artificial structures. Copper scrap recycling reduces the level of sulfur that enters water bodies and the atmosphere. As a result, you get less acid rain and don't have to deal with the consequences of the acidity.

2. Fewer Landfills and Less Water Contamination

If you discard copper products like rice cookers and cell phones, you increase the number of waste in landfills. On the flip side, copper scrap recycling reduces the waste in landfills, which means the dumps don't fill sooner. Besides, copper recycling trims down the costs associated with the management of landfills.

Also, underground water contamination starts even before copper leaves the mine. Miners take the essential components and leave the rest in waste beats. With time exposure to the elements degrades the sulfide ores and causes sulfur to leach back into the ground and contaminate water.

3. Saves Money and Energy

Copper recycling is cheaper than original extraction due to the less time, labor, and materials needed. The lower costs pass down to consumers who pay a lower price to get the copper products. Besides, copper scrap recycling doesn't interfere with the quality of the material so that you will get an item close to the original copper.

Copper recycling consumes much less energy than original copper extraction. As a result, energy reserves such as gas, coal, and oil are preserved. Finally, the amount of carbon (IV) oxide released into the air also declines with a reduction in copper extraction.

Conclusion

Don't let the copper scrap in your house or business go down the drain. Other than environmental conservation, you also get some money off the products. Besides, you don't have to extract the copper yourself. Copper scrap recycling pros have the means to remove the copper so you can sell the item as a whole.