Recycling is one way you can do your part for conservation. Recycling is especially important when it comes to metals, since metal is a precious resource that's very energy-intensive to mine. Copper scrap can easily be recycled, but here are four things you should know:

1. Copper doesn't break down during recycling.

Unlike some materials, such as plastic, which can only be recycled a few times, copper can be recycled indefinitely. That means there's no excuse not to recycle your copper scrap. It's an unfortunate waste to let copper sit in a landfill when it could be remade into another usable object.

2. Recycling copper scrap is good for the environment.

According to The Balance Small Business, most of the copper used in the United States comes from only twenty mines. Converting preexisting copper scrap into new, usable copper uses only a fraction of the energy required to mine copper. If you're concerned about preserving the earth for future generations, it's important to contribute in all the ways you can. Recycling your unwanted copper is an excellent and easy way to do just that.

3. You should separate your copper for recycling.

Copper is recycled using a different process than other metals. Since it has unique properties, it's processed on its own to maintain optimal levels of purity. When you're collecting your recycling, set your scrap copper aside in its own box. If you have copper wire that's insulated in rubber or plastic tubing, you may want to strip it before sending it to a recycling plant. If you're unable to strip the coating off of very thin copper wires, you can still recycle it. Recycling facilities are equipped to deal with small amounts of impurities.

4. Don't forget about the copper in your devices.

Copper is great at conducting electricity, which is why it's commonly used in power lines. It's also used in cell phones, battery chargers, and other small devices for the same reason. When you commit to recycling copper, don't forget about all the copper you can't see. Try not to throw away your unwanted electronics if at all possible. If they're still in working condition, donate your electronics to a local thrift store so others can use them. If they're broken, try to find an electronics recycling facility; such a facility will break your unwanted device down into its component parts, so all of them can be recycled and repurposed.

Call a business like Dabal & Sons Inc for more information about what you can do with your copper scrap.

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