Gerdau is a major recycler and annually recycles approximately 16 million tons of iron scrap. This represents about 70% of its production (much higher than the worldwide average 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.