Recycling and salvage play a crucial role in reducing waste and repurposing valuable materials, but many people don’t fully understand the difference between the two. Jim Dimarco, Owner of Scrap Dog Recycling & Salvage, explains how the industry works, common misconceptions and the most valuable discarded materials.
Salvage vs. Recycling: What’s the Difference?
Salvage involves reusing parts from a vehicle or other metal-related items, while recycling is the process of breaking down materials to create new products. “Most of what we recycle has some type of metal content,” says Dimarco. In addition to metals, Scrap Dog also processes paper waste for commercial clients, such as printing companies with high-volume paper disposal needs.
Clearing Up Misconceptions
While metal recycling and salvage yards are fairly straightforward, Dimarco points to confusion surrounding curbside recycling. “Many people think curbside recycling goes into a landfill with the trash, which is not the case,” he explains. “It’s collected by a separate truck – similar in appearance to a trash truck – but it then is transported to a recycling facility where materials are sorted and sent to mills for repurposing.”
“More people are recycling and they understand how it works.”
Jim Dimarco, Owner, Scrap Dog Recycling & Salvage
Industry Challenges & Trends
Despite fluctuations in various industries, Dimarco sees stability in recycling and salvage. “Recycling and salvage have been around forever, and not much has changed other than the way materials are processed with new technology.” While trends in recyclables remain steady, he has noticed an increase in awareness. “More people are recycling and they understand how it works. We’ve even created a section on our website showing people what items in different areas of their homes can be recycled, which has been beneficial for them and for us.”
The Value in Discarded Items
Some of the most valuable items people discard include non-ferrous metals such as copper, brass, aluminum, catalytic converters and lead. “Ferrous items, which are made of steel, are more common but have less value,” Dimarco notes. How to tell the difference? “A magnet will stick to ferrous metals but not to non-ferrous ones.”
What Can & Can’t Be Recycled
While many metals and electronic components can be recycled, there are materials that require specialized disposal. “Old tube TVs and computer monitors contain toxic components and need to be handled by specialized recyclers,” says Dimarco. Scrap Dog Recycling & Salvage simplifies the process with a clear motto: “If it has a cord attached, an engine or motor inside of it, takes batteries, or contains a majority of metal content – WE BUY IT!”
Recycling and salvage remain essential in reducing waste and reusing valuable materials. By understanding the process and knowing what can be repurposed, individuals can make informed decisions and contribute to a more sustainable future.
