In theory, metals can be used over and over again, minimizing the need to mine and process virgin materials and thus saving substantial amounts of energy and water while minimizing environmental degradation. Raising levels ...

Recycling rates of metals are far lower than potential for reuse. Less than one-third of 60 studied have a recycling rate above 50 per cent, though many are crucial to clean technologies such as batteries for hybrid cars ...

This booklet summarizes the first two reports of the Global Metals Flows Group - Metal Stocks in Society: Scientific Synthesis and The Recycling Rates of Metals: A Status Report. UNEP's International Resource Panel for ...