Steel is everywhere. It makes up the buildings we work in, the appliances we use, the vehicles we drive, and even the tools we rely on every day. It’s one of the most durable and widely used materials in the world.
It’s also one of the most recyclable, too.
Whether you’re a manufacturer producing steel scraps on the job or a homeowner cleaning out old appliances and metal fixtures, recycling steel is one of the simplest ways to reduce waste, save energy, and earn cash back.
At Iron & Metals, we’ve been helping Coloradans recycle steel for over six decades, turning scrap into new opportunities while keeping valuable materials out of landfills.
Steel recycling has major environmental and economic benefits that impact everyone from local families to large-scale industries.
Here’s why it matters:
Producing new steel from raw materials requires mining iron ore, using coal, and consuming massive amounts of energy. Recycling steel, on the other hand, uses about 60–75% less energy.
Every ton of recycled steel saves roughly:
That means every load of recycled steel reduces strain on natural resources while lowering carbon emissions and energy use.
Steel doesn’t break down over time. Once it’s discarded, it stays in the landfill indefinitely. By recycling, you ensure that perfectly reusable material gets melted down and reshaped into something new, rather than taking up valuable space in waste facilities.
Unlike some materials that lose quality when recycled, steel can be recycled endlessly without losing strength or durability. A piece of steel from an old car could become part of a bridge, a washing machine, or a building frame over and over again.
The scrap metal recycling industry supports thousands of jobs and contributes billions to the U.S. economy every year. Recycling locally means manufacturers and homeowners help sustain Colorado’s metal supply chain by fueling new production while reducing environmental impact.
For manufacturers, construction firms, and industrial operations, steel recycling is both a cost-saving measure and a sustainability win.
Steel is heavy, and sending it to the landfill isn’t cheap. By recycling, businesses instead reduce or eliminate disposal fees and free up valuable shop or yard space.
Scrap steel has consistent value in the recycling market. Even if the price per pound is lower than non-ferrous metals like copper or aluminum, the high volume of steel generated in industrial settings often translates into significant returns.
Iron & Metals offers roll-off containers and scheduled pickup services to make collection simple. Instead of letting scrap pile up or paying for waste hauling, manufacturers can have containers swapped out as needed, keeping workflows smooth and safe.
Recycling supports ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals and environmental certifications. Many companies include recycling metrics in sustainability reporting, showing stakeholders and customers a real commitment to responsible practices.
Homeowners might not deal with industrial scrap, but steel recycling still offers plenty of practical benefits, especially during renovations, cleanouts, or appliance upgrades.
Many everyday items contain recyclable steel, including:
If it’s metal and doesn’t contain screens or hazardous materials, there’s a good chance Iron & Metals can recycle it.
Most steel is priced by weight so even small loads can add up. Homeowners often find that recycling old appliances or scrap metal helps offset disposal or moving costs.
Recycling at a local facility keeps materials in circulation, supports local jobs, and ensures that metal is processed safely and responsibly. It’s a small step that makes a big impact.
Whether you’re a homeowner or a large-scale business, the recycling process is straightforward:
At Iron & Metals, we handle the sorting, processing, and preparation, ensuring your materials are recycled efficiently and responsibly.
A few simple steps can help maximize your return and make the process easier:
Whether you bring it in yourself or schedule a pickup, clean, sorted steel earns better pricing and faster service.
At Iron & Metals, we make steel recycling simple, transparent, and rewarding. We’ve served Colorado’s businesses and residents since 1961, offering:
From homeowners cleaning out the garage to manufacturers managing steady production scrap, we help every customer turn steel waste into real value.
Steel recycling is one of the easiest ways for both homeowners and businesses to make a real difference for their budget, their community, and the planet.
It saves energy, reduces waste, supports local jobs, and pays back in more ways than one.
Together, we can keep Colorado clean, efficient, and sustainable — one piece of steel at a time. Contact us to learn more.
