2019 Recycling Industry Yearbook

Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries, Inc. 18 Ferrous scrap is the most recycled material in the United States and worldwide. Recycling one car saves more than 2,500 lbs. of iron ore, 1,400 lbs. of coal, and 120 lbs. of limestone. On average, the United States processes enough ferrous scrap every day to build 25 Eiffel Towers. Producing steel from ferrous scrap requires 60% less energy and reduces CO 2 emissions 58% compared with producing steel from virgin materials. Iron and Steel