For dumpster, container and large loads please call 404-234-9401 and 404-964-5124.
For dumpster, container, and large loads please call 404-234-9401 and 404-964-5124.

For dumpster, container, and large loads please call

Scrap Metal Recycling

770-819-9006

404-627-1070

Sell Your Scrap Metal Today
The Impact of Metal Recycling on Reducing Landfill Waste

The Impact of Metal Recycling on Reducing Landfill Waste

Each year, the world generates MILLIONS of tons of waste (that’s BILLIONS of kilograms) – much of which ends up in landfills. These overflowing landfills pose significant environmental challenges from soil and water contamination to greenhouse gas emissions.

One of the most effective ways to combat this growing problem is through scrap metal recycling in Atlanta, GA. Recycling metals not only saves valuable resources and puts cash in your pocket but also diverts substantial amounts of waste from landfills.

In this brief article brought to you by M&M Recycling we want to highlight how scrap metal recycling contributes to reducing landfill waste and why it’s a practice worth embracing. If you have any questions or concerns, you are more than welcome to call M&M Recycling to speak with a member of our team.

The Problem with Landfills

Landfills are more than just eyesores; they’re ticking environmental time bombs. When waste decomposes in landfills, it produces methane. This greenhouse gas is 25 times more powerful than carbon dioxide in trapping heat in the atmosphere, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Moreover, improperly managed landfills can lead to soil and groundwater contamination.

Metal waste is a significant contributor to this landfill volume. Items like old appliances, junk cars, and construction debris take up large amounts of space and don’t decompose naturally. Scrap metal recycling in Marietta, GA provides a sustainable solution.

Divert, Prevent, Reuse

Metal items like steel beams, aluminum siding, copper wiring, and old machinery are bulky and consume significant landfill space. Recycling these materials reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills by diverting away countless tons.

This diverted metal waste not only saves space but also prevents pollutants from entering the soil and water sources. Many metals contain coatings, paints, or other treatments that can leach harmful chemicals into the environment if left to degrade in landfills.

These diverted metals aren’t just stored in some container. Recycled metals are a critical resource for manufacturing. Steel, aluminum, and copper are especially useful. By reusing these metals, manufacturers rely less on mining raw materials

Environmental Impact of Scrap Metal Recycling

We’ve mentioned it earlier, but let’s dive deeper into the environmental impacts of scrap metal recycling in McDonough, GA. According to the EPA:

  • Recycling aluminum saves 95% of the energy required to produce it from raw materials.
  • Recycling steel saves 60-74% of energy compared to primary production.
  • Recycling one ton of steel conserves 2,500 pounds of iron ore, 1,400 pounds of coal, and 120 pounds of limestone.

These savings translate into fewer environmental disruptions caused by mining operations, such as deforestation and habitat destruction.

Economic Benefits of Recycling Metals

Reducing landfill waste through scrap metal recycling doesn’t just benefit the environment; it bolsters the economy. The recycling industry employs over 500,000 people in the U.S. and saves municipalities on waste management by reducing the need for landfill space.

Plus, scrap metal recycling centers offer payouts for metals. This gives households a humble source of additional income. If you’re looking for a scrap metal buyer to purchase your scrap metals, then consider calling M&M Recycling.