Reuse — Best for the Environment
Reuse means that a product is used again, in its original form or with minimal adjustments. It can be a matter of reselling a machine, using a component or repairing something instead of throwing it away.
Since no new material needs to be produced, reuse is the most resource-efficient option from a climate perspective.
Every time you can use a metal component again as it is, you avoid the full energy and emissions step required for new production.
Recycling — creating new raw materials
When a product can no longer be used as it is, it goes on to recycling. The material is then sorted, fragmented and processed into new raw materials that can be remelted and used in new products. This is how we at Skrotify handle scrap metal.
Recycling saves large amounts of energy compared to new production, but still requires processes such as sorting, smelting and transportation.
It's still a much better option than disposing of the material.
Energy extraction — the last resort
Energy extraction involves burning non-recyclable materials to extract energy, such as heat or electricity. It is mainly used for combustible waste, not metal.
Because the material is destroyed and cannot be used again, this counts as the least sustainable option -- although it is better than landfill.
We want as little as possible to go into energy extraction. The material is too valuable to be fired up.
Why It Matters
For companies looking to reduce their climate impact, it is important to understand the difference between these three paths:
- Reuse is best for the climate and the wallet
- Recycling is second best -- and still very valuable
- Energy extraction should be avoided as far as possible
At Skrotify, we help you choose the right path for your material, ensuring that as much as possible is given new life.
