Materials recovery

isic code 3830, 'Materials recovery', encompasses the process of extracting and processing valuable materials from waste or scrap products. This industry plays a crucial role in the circular economy, diverting materials from landfills and incineration, and instead recovering and reintroducing them into the production cycle. By recycling and reusing materials, this industry contributes to the conservation of natural resources, energy savings, and the reduction of environmental pollution.

The main production techniques in the materials recovery industry involve the collection, sorting, and processing of waste and scrap materials. This typically includes mechanical processes such as shredding, crushing, and separating materials based on their physical and chemical properties. Advanced techniques like 3832 Dismantling of wrecks and 3831 Dismantling of used goods may also be employed to dismantle complex products and extract reusable components and materials.

The key inputs for the materials recovery industry include various types of waste and scrap materials, such as metals, plastics, paper, glass, and electronic waste. Specialized machinery and equipment, such as sorting systems, shredders, and compactors, are also essential inputs for the efficient processing of these materials. Additionally, the industry relies on a skilled workforce to operate the equipment and manage the recovery processes.

The main outputs of the materials recovery industry are the recovered and processed materials, which can then be sold to 2420 Manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals, 2221 Manufacture of plastic plates, sheets, tubes and profiles, 1701 Manufacture of pulp, paper and paperboard, and other manufacturing industries that use these recycled materials as inputs for their production processes. The industry also generates secondary products, such as refuse-derived fuel, that can be used for energy recovery.