Electrical wire scrap: price, secondary market and environmental concerns

The appreciation of scrap electrical wire directly impacts the secondary market and environmental practices. This article analyzes factors that influence prices, the dynamics of the reuse market and the importance of environmental care in accordance with current regulations.

Price of scrap electrical wire

The price of scrap electrical wire is determined mainly by the amount of copper present, a raw material with a high value on the global market. The price of copper varies according to supply and demand, as well as international economic factors.

In addition to the composition, the purity and condition of the scrap affects the commercial value. Wires with intact insulation require additional processes to separate the copper and insulation, reducing the price of the material. The price also varies depending on the location and logistical costs for collection and delivery to the recycler.

Secondary market for scrap wire

The secondary market for scrap electrical wire has been expanding due to the growing demand for recycled raw materials. This market is key to the circular economy and reducing environmental impact, promoting the reuse of copper and minimizing the extraction of natural resources.

Secondary market operators work to process, classify and sell recycled wire to companies that reuse it in new productions. Correct segmentation of the material and quality control are essential to ensure efficient reuse.

Environmental care in the handling of scrap

According to the National Solid Waste Policy (Law No. 12.305/2010), the correct handling of electrical wire waste is mandatory in order to minimize environmental impacts. Incorrectly disposed of electrical wires can cause contamination of the soil and water resources due to the chemical agents present in the plastic insulation and copper.

The irregular disposal of wires must be avoided by sending them to specific collection centers, which guarantee proper treatment and disposal. The electronic waste collection offers certified solutions for electronic waste, included in this context.

In addition, handling and transportation require attention to avoid environmental accidents and occupational risks, complying with the standards of the National Mining Agency and the environment.

Applicable legislation and technical standards

The handling of scrap wire is supported by the National Solid Waste Policy (Law No. 12.305/2010), establishing shared responsibility between generators, transporters, recyclers and the public authorities (Art. 30 et seq.).

In addition, CONAMA Resolution No. 401/2008 provides for the proper management of solid waste, including electronic components, detailing the collection, transportation and treatment of recyclable materials.

The National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology (Inmetro) and the Brazilian Association of Technical Standards (ABNT) complement this with specific standards for classification and reuse processes.

Security in the disposal of electronic devices with storage media

When disposing of devices containing media, such as hard drives and other components with data, it is essential to guarantee the security and integrity of the information in order to avoid legal and confidentiality risks. For this reason, secure sanitization is recommended, according to defined technical processes.

To this end, using specialized electronic data sanitization services ensures the irreversible and certified destruction of information. This practice is in line with the legal requirements on personal data protection (General Data Protection Law - Law No. 13,709/2018).

Final considerations

Electrical wire scrap plays a strategic role in the secondary market and the circular economy, requiring attention to price, quality and, above all, the environmental and legal provisions in force. Proper management promotes economic and environmental benefits, contributing to sustainability and reducing negative impacts.