Why does metal recycling bring so much climate benefit?
In the new production of metals, huge amounts of energy are required. Mining, smelting and transporting ore drives major spills. When you recycle metal from scrap instead, you avoid the whole fossil-heavy step from mine to metal works.
Recycling aluminium saves up to 95% of energy compared to primary production. For copper it is around 85%, and for steel about 60%.
The energy saved effectively means a corresponding reduction in carbon dioxide emissions — often several hundred kilograms per tonne of scrap.
Example: CO₂ savings per tonne of recycled metal
Here are approximate savings according to European standard sources (per ton of recycled metal):
- Aluminum: 9,000-11,500 kg CO₂ saved
- Copper: 3,000-4,000 kg CO₂ saved
- Stainless steel: 1,300-1,800 kg CO₂ saved
- Lead: 1,000-1,400 kg CO₂ saved
- Zinc: 800—1,200 kg CO₂ saved
- Iron/Steel: 1,000-1,500 kg CO₂ saved
Values may vary depending on various factors.
Climate smart — but also profitable
The CO2 savings are not just an environmental gain. They also strengthen the brand, simplify environmental certifications and open doors to green business. For companies that want to be at the forefront, recycling is an obvious part of the climate strategy.
Showing exactly how much CO₂ you save on your scrap makes the climate benefit tangible — and measurable.
