Urban Mining in Practice: How Much Gold, Copper, and Silver Are There in a Ton of Electronic Boards?

Introduction to Urban Mining

Urban mining refers to the recovery of valuable metals found in electronic waste, especially in printed circuit boards (PCBs). This process contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing traditional mining extraction and promoting the circular economy according to the guidelines established by Decree No. 10,936/2021, which regulates reverse logistics systems in Brazil.

Metal Composition of Electronic Boards

Electronic boards are composed of various metals with high commercial value, mainly gold, copper, and silver. One ton of electronic boards may contain approximately 200 to 400 grams of gold, 150 to 250 kilograms of copper, and about 1 to 2 kilograms of silver, according to data compiled by the electronic waste collection and recycling system and studies by CETESB.

Metals Extraction and Recovery

The urban mining process involves the proper collection of electronic waste, separation of boards, shredding, and physico-chemical procedures for metal extraction, adhering to the environmental parameters established by the National Solid Waste Policy (Law No. 12,305/2010). To ensure responsible management, the correct disposal of HDDs and media containing sensitive data must be done through HDD and media sanitization, guaranteeing information security.

Benefits and Environmental Impact

Urban mining contributes to reducing pollution and the demand for natural resources, preventing heavy metals from contaminating soil and water bodies. Furthermore, it promotes the recovery of strategic metals that are scarce and of high economic value. As guided by the National Congress, recycling and reverse logistics practices are essential for Brazil to fulfill its environmental commitments.

Final Considerations

One ton of electronic boards represents a valuable set of metallic resources. Urban mining, through optimized and regulated processes, enables the efficient extraction of gold, copper, and silver. Proper electronic waste collection is essential and can be scheduled via the link electronic waste collection. Additionally, the correct disposal of media and HDDs can be done through safe disposal of HDD and media, protecting sensitive data and avoiding environmental risks.