The rapid rate at which technology has been advancing in recent years has reshaped how we work, live and interact with each other. With newer models of electrical items being released seemingly all the time, you would be forgiven for not knowing how to dispose of the ones you no longer want or need.
This article will address the growing issue of electronic waste, focusing on what cable recycling is and why it is so important.
What is cable recycling?
From homes and offices to factories and construction sites, electronic items that need to be scrapped are found in both domestic and commercial settings across the country.
The types of cables commonly recycled include:
- Household power cables, e.g. coaxial cables for internet connection, televisions and radios
- IT / data cables, e.g. for internet, servers and telephone systems
- Electrical wiring from construction sites, e.g. for lighting, tools and switchboards
What happens to recycled cables?
The process is as follows:
- Old electric cables are collected and sorted by type.
- The cables are then mechanically shredded into smaller pieces to help with the separation stage that comes next.
- Valuable metals – such as copper and aluminium – are then recovered, melted down and reused in manufacturing new products, such as wiring. The plastic insulation can also be recycled into new products where possible.
- The separated, clean raw materials are finally sent to manufacturers as secondary resources, reducing the demand for mining.
Why is cable recycling important?
Cable recycling has significant environmental benefits as it reduces the volume of waste sent to landfill and conserves valuable materials that can be reused where possible.
Businesses also have a legal duty to stay compliant with health and safety regulations and ensure all waste is managed properly. Cable recycling plays an important part here as it diverts waste away from landfill and makes sure it is handled responsibly, particularly when you choose an Environment Agency-approved company such as Hill Metal Recycling.
The financial benefit of using a reputable scrap metal recycling company also means that you will receive a payment in exchange for the materials you want to dispose of. This allows you to earn money while also helping the environment by ensuring valuable materials are recycled instead of wasted.
How you can recycle your cables
When it comes to cable recycling, choosing a compliant, experienced company is key. Here at Hill Metal Recycling, we make cable recycling easy for households and businesses throughout Harlow, Essex and the surrounding areas. We take our commitment to the environment very seriously, promoting the importance of recycling scrap metal – including cables.
We accept:
- Household cables
- Aluminium cables
- Brass wire cables
- Lead and copper cables
- Armoured cables
Simply drop your scrap cables off at our purpose-built depot and we will provide you with an instant payment for the best possible price. We also offer a 24-hour scrap cable collection service throughout the local areas.
To find out more about our services or to arrange a collection of your old cables, simply get in touch with us today.