Information on Recycling Copper

A higher percentage of copper is recycled than aluminum.

According to CopperInfo.com, you can recycle just about anything made of copper. Humans have used copper for more than 10,000 years. Recycling copper as well as its alloys, such as bronze and brass, goes back to ancient times.

Sources

Recycled copper accounts for 80 to 85 percent of the copper the world uses today. Used car radiators, water pipes, electric cables, electronic devices, and roofing represent some common sources of recyclable copper.

Life Span of Copper Products

Architectural material consisting of copper can last more than 100 years, while plumbing and cable can last several decades. Electronic products have the shortest life span, perhaps a few years.

A Renewable Resource

Copper represents a renewable resource because recycling does not diminish its quality or change its properties, even if repeated recycling occurs.

Recycling Value

According to Copper.org, top-grade copper scrap commands about 85 percent of newly mined copper.

Domestic Production

The United States produces over 95 per cent of the copper it uses, by recycling as well as by mining new ore.

References

• Copperinfo.com: Recycling
• Copper.org: Recycling