Many people don’t realize that recycling is a massive part of our day-to-day life. When most Americans think of recycling, they think about their day-to-day waste, such as soda cans or cardboard boxes. However, recycling goes far beyond that; from the cars we drive, the bridges we drive over, the supplies we use in hospitals and the desks we use in schools and at work. Believe it or not, these items are all manufactured from recycled materials.
Langley Recycling is excited to see Sierra International Machinery launch a docu-series called Repurposed that sheds light on the recycling industry within the United States. The story of the recycling industry is one of great importance as it promotes a circular economy and supports sustainability.
The docu-series is narrated by Sierra International Machinery co-owner and President John Sacco and is available on their YouTube channel with a new episode released weekly. We are particularly excited by the fact that it offers a behind-the-scenes look into the recycled metals industry and highlights how much of our day-to-day lives revolve around recycling.
Highlights from Episode 2 of Repurposed include:
- 70% of all steel produced in the United States is produced from recycled materials
- Scrap metals should not be considered junk or waste
- The manufacturing of new steel in the United States begins in recycling facilities
- Steel Mills in the United States cannot operate without recycling facilities
- Virtually everything we touch is made from recycled materials
There is often a misconception that scrap metals are junk and are taken to junk yards. In the docu-series, Repurposed, Langley Recycling was pleased to see this notion completely debunked. As the narrator, John Sacco explained the scrap metal industry is not just junk or waste, it is a lucrative commodity. He compared scrap metal to gold, except gold has never and never will be considered junk because the intrinsic value is more obvious. He went on to explain, “when you see a quarter acre stacked high with recycled iron, what are you looking at, you’re looking at something that is worth over a million dollars.”
Not only do scrap metals have significant economic value, but they also promote environmental stewardship and positively impact the environment. George Adams, President of SA Recycling, argued “there is not an industry that does more to reduce CO2 on the planet than recycling.” The environmental impact of digging for new raw metals is extensive as you need to dig, transport and melt it down. Whereas, recycled materials can be cut, melted and that’s it.
Langley Recycling is proud to be part of the recycling industry that is working hard to protect the environment. Contact us to learn more about our recycling processes and how to sell your scrap metal.
