Gerdau

SCRAP

The importance of scrap

Gerdau is a major recycler and annually recycles approximately 12.8 million tons of iron scrap. This represents about 70% of its production (much higher than the worldwide index of 40%). The scrap consumption by Gerdau offers benefits including reduction in CO2 emissions, optimization of processes, a decrease in energy use, more competitive costs and an increase in productivity. Strengthening the scrap collection network also contributes to a reduction in the volume of materials sent to landfills and results in jobs and income for thousands of local people. Gerdau encourages these workers to seek education and greater access to information.


Where the scrap comes from

Most of the scrap recycled by Gerdau is material that is no longer used by society, such as old stoves, freezers and cars. This material is recycled and transformed into new steel products. Gerdau also recycles industrial waste steel from the automotive, packaging and appliance industries.


Scrap recycling process: