As a business owner, one way that you can be more environmentally responsible is by recycling the scrap metal your business generates. In order to effectively recycle the scrap metal, you need to set up a system for doing so.  

#1 Identify Scrap Metal

First, you need to understand what qualifies as scrap metal. Scrap metal is any type of metal that can be potentially recycled. 

There are two different types of scrap metal: ferrous and nonferrous scrap metal. Ferrous scrap metal is metal that is recyclable but does not generate a high price. Examples of ferrous metal include iron and steel. 

Nonferrous scrap metal is the more valuable type of scrap metal. Examples of nonferrous scrap metal include brass, aluminum, bronze, and stainless steel. These scrap metals are seen as higher value scrap metals since they generate more money when they are recycled. 

#2 Sort Scrap Metals

It can be beneficial to sort your scrap metals. This makes it easier to recycle your scrap metals for both the individual who picks up your scrap metal and the company that recycles your scrap metal. 

If possible, sort your scrap metal into ferrous and nonferrous metals. You can use an industrial magnet to help you identify ferrous and nonferrous metals. If the magnet sticks to the item, it is a ferrous metal; if the magnet doesn't stick, it is a nonferrous metal.  

Create separate bins or areas for the ferrous and nonferrous metal that your business generates.  

#3 Break Down Large Items

Next, you can further assist with the recycling of scrap metal from your business by breaking down your items into smaller parts that are also recyclable. Copper wires and electrical components are often recyclable on their own; if you are striving to break down and recycle more items, make sure that you remove the other items that can be recycled.  

With a washing machine, for example, you can remove the copper wiring and the motor from the machine for further recycling. You can also separate out the different types of metal, such as the stainless-steel drum and the aluminum outer parts.  

#4 Arrange Pick-Up

Finally, hire a company to pick up your scrap metal. There are many individuals who run small businesses that make their money from picking up scrap metal. You can also work with a larger, more established business.

Have a set time for whomever you work with to pick up your scrap metal. If your business generates a small amount of scrap metal, a monthly pick-up may work. If your business generates a large amount of scrap metal, a weekly or bi-weekly pick-up may be best.  

Having a designed spot where you store the scrap metal will make it easier for whoever picks up your scrap metal to grab it. Breaking down your scrap metal will also make it easier on whomever picks up your scrap metal. 

To learn more about recycling scrap metal, visit a site like http://www.scrapmetalprocessors.com/.