World

Your Best Guide to Recycling Scrap Metal

Published

11 months ago

June 16, 2023

We can all readily agree that in today’s world, where environmental consciousness is at its peak, recycling has become an essential and fundamental practice. But there is an area of recycling that often goes unnoticed, and it’s ironic because it’s an area that might well benefit most of us: scrap metal recycling. When you recycle scrap metal, this not only helps preserve our natural resources – but it also offers numerous environmental and economic advantages. In other words, it could also bring money to your wallet! So how do you get started, and what materials can you recycle? Here’s your best guide to recycling scrap metal – and its real benefits.

Understand the importance of recycling your scrap metal

Recycling scrap metal reduces the need for extracting (mining for minerals) and refining virgin ores. When we reuse our existing metals, we can conserve valuable resources like copper, iron, aluminum, and steel, which are otherwise obtained through energy-intensive mining processes. When it comes to energy, it’s the same: recycling scrap metal requires significantly less energy compared to the production of new metals. The energy savings achieved through recycling can be as much as 90% for copper, 92% for aluminum, and 56% for steel, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gases! Lastly, when we recycle our scrap metal, we prevent these materials from ending up in landfills, as confirmed by companies such as Langley Recycling. Metals can often take hundreds of years to decompose and may release harmful substances into the environment if not properly disposed of!

Types of scrap metal

There are different types of scrap metal for recycling, and these include ferrous metals and non-ferrous metals. Ferrous metals include iron and steel, commonly found in household appliances, automobiles, and construction materials. Meanwhile, non-ferrous metals include aluminum, brass copper, stainless steel, and lead. Non-ferrous metals are widely used in wiring, electronics, plumbing, and various consumer products.

Preparing scrap metal for recycling

Once you have found scrap metal, you need to prepare and sort it first. For instance, you must separate different types of metals to ensure maximum recycling efficiency. Use magnets to distinguish ferrous metals from non-ferrous metals, as ferrous metals are magnetic. Remove any non-metallic attachments, such as plastic, rubber, or wood, as these can affect the recycling process.

Locating scrap metal recycling centers

You can search for local facilities and locate nearby scrap metal recycling centers. These facilities accept various types of scrap metal and may even offer pick-up services. On the other hand, you can also utilize online directories and recycling websites to find reputable recycling centers in your area.

The benefits of recycling scrap metal

Most of us already know that recycling scrap metal helps reduce the demand for mining, thereby minimizing the destruction of natural habitats and ecosystems. In addition, recycling saves energy that would otherwise be consumed during the extraction, transportation, and manufacturing processes involved in creating new metals. Scrap metal recycling creates employment opportunities and contributes to local economies. The recycling industry also generates revenue through the sale of recycled metal, providing economic benefits for individuals and communities.

Recycling scrap metal is a win-win situation for both the environment and the economy. By embracing this practice, we can conserve valuable resources, reduce energy consumption, and minimize waste. Together, let’s make a difference by promoting the responsible recycling of scrap metal and working towards a sustainable future.

World

A Step-by-Step Guide to Hiring the Right Personal Injury Lawyer

Published

1 week ago

April 19, 2024

Michelle Langton

Are you dealing with injuries, loss of income, and hefty medical bills because of an accident that was not your fault? If yes, you need the services of an excellent personal injury lawyer. But how do you determine if a lawyer is a perfect match for your personal injury case when you have so many options? This step-by-step guide aims to teach you the critical steps to hiring the best personal injury lawyer in your state.

1. Know Why You Need a Personal Injury Attorney

Typically, you must hire the right personal injury lawyer if you are pursuing a lawsuit for personal injury. As defined on Forbes, a personal injury lawsuit is a civil action that an injured person takes against a person or company responsible for an accident that resulted in injuries.

For instance, you get into a car crash or slip and fall incident in the workplace because of someone else’s fault. You can sue the party responsible for injuries, lost wages, medical bills, and mental anguish.

But there are instances you may not need a personal injury attorney despite being in an accident. For example, a minor fender bender where no one sustained injuries or had their property damaged is easy to resolve without involving lawyers. So, after an accident, evaluate the damages incurred. If they are severe, search for a personal injury attorney.

2. Do Extensive Research

Where do I begin my search? Referrals are valuable because you can ask specific questions regarding the lawyer’s communication style, availability, litigation experience, and fee structure. So, ask family and friends to recommend someone they have worked with. Search for attorneys in your area online if you need referrals. You can type a simple search query like ‘personal injury attorney near me’ on Google. Alternatively, look for a lawyer through online directories.

3. Schedule Free Consultations

You want to know what a personal injury lawyer will do for you. Therefore, schedule a free consultation meeting and ask questions like:

What will you prioritize in my case?

The right attorney will focus on getting justice and fair compensation to ensure your stress-free recovery. Communication should also be a top priority. The lawyer should communicate with you using simple terms to help you understand your legal rights. More importantly, they should update you about the case progress on time.

Do you have experience handling cases like mine?

As lawyers at Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo law firm mention, experienced personal injury attorneys will guide you through the legal process. Even more interesting, they will handle negotiations on your behalf to safeguard your rights. So, make sure your lawyer has experience in personal injury law.

It would be better if they had specialized experience handling cases like yours. For example, if you are pursuing a truck accident lawsuit, you will want a personal injury lawyer with expertise in dealing with trucking accident claims.

What is the value of my personal injury claim?

After evaluating your case, a skilled attorney should tell you the worth of your personal injury claim. What you should be cautious of are unrealistic estimates and guarantees. There are no assurances in personal injury claims. If a lawyer promises a higher settlement that sounds too good to be true, do not fall for it because they are lying.

How much are your legal fees?

Personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee arrangement. Based on Cornell Law School, a contingent fee structure allows lawyers to receive a certain percentage of the total settlement value a client wins. As a result, you do not pay your legal representative any upfront fee.

4. Check Testimonials

Aside from experience, work with a trustworthy and reputable attorney. You can quickly determine a lawyer has an outstanding reputation by reading testimonials from past clients.

Find out if the clients feel happy about the outcomes of their case. How about the style of communication? Does the lawyer explain legal terms in simple language?

A reputable lawyer will receive positive feedback from clients and respect from peers. Also, check with your local bar association to ensure your preferred lawyer doesn’t have disciplinary actions against them.

5. Select Your Lawyer

At this point, comfort matters a lot. Do not choose a lawyer you feel uncomfortable discussing your legal issues with. Also, ensure they have the experience and resources to win your personal injury claim. Equally important, they should have an excellent reputation.

Conclusion

When you are a victim of an accident that someone else caused out of negligence, you need to seek justice and compensation for your injuries. There is only one way to achieve these goals. You must work with the best lawyer to pursue a personal injury claim. True, choosing the right one can be challenging. But you can make an informed decision if you follow this step-by-step guide to hiring the right personal injury lawyer.