xxxx

Last year and even into the summer of this year metal prices were at all time highs. Recycling metals was so profitable that new laws and regulations were set in place by state governments to require identification (and sometimes waiting periods) for people who were bringing in recyclable metals to facilities. The laws were put into place to deter people from stealing wires and other metals. There was a news report out of Memphis that thieves were taking copper wire from air conditioners from churches.

Now, the price of scrap metal and other recyclables has fallen dramatically. Most metals have fallen equally (sometimes more) with the price of oil. The drop in prices has caused recycling facilities to cut jobs just because they can’t get the same revenue as they used to. Some people aren’t recycling as much either. Several cities that have started curbside recycling are scaling back.

The real loser in the price drop is the environment. When prices were up, people were more inclined to recycle because of the money they could get. Also, at the time recyclable materials prices were up, gas prices were up and consumers were becoming more environmentally conscious…now, with gas prices and other commodity prices down, awareness has also taken a hit.

Jeremy

View all posts by Jeremy
Jeremys website