Gerdau is the largest recycler in Latin America and around the world it transforms, each year, millions of metric tons of scrap into steel, contributing to environmental preservation and reducing the quantity of material deposited in landfi lls and at inappropriate sites. By using scrap steel in its steel production process, Gerdau also contributes reduces energy use and, as a consequence, CO2 emissions. Moreover, the extensive chain of scrap metal collection and processing for reuse creates job opportunities for thousands of people.