Most foundries have installed sand reclamation systems that screen the metal and debris out of the sand so that a good, clean product is available for reuse in a variety of applications and industries. Making castings from recycled metal products saves energy and conserves resources. Since foundries produce castings with recycled content, we are able to reduce our needs for raw materials and energy. Reprocessing used materials in the foundry industry also has a domino effect by reducing the energy demands for mining, refining and many other metal-related processes. Interestingly, every pound of steel recycled saves 5450 BTUs of energy, enough to light a 60-watt bulb for over 26 hours.
Recycling also reduces pollution risks by keeping materials out of disposal facilities.
For instance, reusing steel reduces both water and air pollution and saves water, compared to making new steel from iron ore. The U.S. foundry industry is committed to the preservation and protection of the environment and our natural resources. We all live in this world and hope to pass on a strong environmental legacy to future generations. Metalcasters recognize the vital role we play in recycling and take this job very seriously. Every day, foundries divert valuable materials from the waste stream, reducing the burden on landfills and incinerators and minimizing the need for virgin materials.