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Copper Scrap Market Research Report: By Grade (No. 1 Copper Scrap, No. 2 Copper Scrap, Millberry Copper Scrap, Bare Bright Copper Scrap, Heavy Copper Scrap, Light Copper Scrap), By Source (Industrial Scrap, Consumer Scrap, Construction Scrap, Automotive Scrap), By Application (Automotive Industry, Construction Industry, Electrical & Electronics Industry, Renewable Energy Sector, Shipbuilding Industry), By Melting Point (High Melting Point Scrap (>1084C), Low Melting Point Scrap (1084C)), By Purity Level (High Purity (>95%), Medium Pur


ID: MRFR/CnM/23407-HCR | 111 Pages | Author: Chitranshi Jaiswal| November 2024

Global Copper Scrap Market Overview


The Copper Scrap Market Size was estimated at 24.41 (USD Billion) in 2022. The Copper Scrap Industry is expected to grow from 25.91(USD Billion) in 2023 to 44.4 (USD Billion) by 2032. The Copper Scrap Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 6.16% during the forecast period (2023 - 2032).


Key Copper Scrap Market Trends Highlighted


Several key factors drive the  copper scrap market. The construction sector represents a significant consumer of copper, and as urban development and infrastructure projects continue to expand, so does the demand for copper. The shift towards renewable energy sources also contributes to growth in the copper scrap market. Electric vehicles, solar panels, and wind turbines all require substantial amounts of copper, and the recycling of scrap materials helps meet this demand. Moreover, technological advancements in scrap processing, such as improved sorting and extraction techniques, are enhancing the quality and quantity of recycled copper.



In terms of opportunities, the exploration of new copper sources and the development of alternative materials present potential growth areas for the copper scrap market. As the  population grows, so too does the demand for copper. Finding new sources of this essential metal will be crucial to meeting future needs. Additionally, research into alternative materials, such as aluminum or composite materials, could potentially reduce the reliance on copper and create new opportunities in the scrap market.



Recent trends in the copper scrap market include the increasing adoption of sustainable practices by manufacturers and consumers. The environmental benefits of recycling copper make it an attractive option for businesses and individuals alike, contributing to the growth of the market. Furthermore, government regulations and policies aimed at promoting recycling and reducing waste contribute to the positive outlook for the copper scrap market.


Copper Scrap Market Overview


Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review


Copper Scrap Market Drivers


Rising Demand from the Construction Sector


One of the sectors that are the greatest consumers of copper scrap is the construction sector, the growth of which is projected to become a driver of the demand for copper scrap in the future. Copper is widely used in construction for wiring, plumbing, and roofing. As the construction sector continues to grow and develop, the demand for copper scrap as construction materials will also continue to grow. The increasing penetration of green buildings is also expected to reinforce the demand for copper scrap because copper is a recyclable material.

Overall, the  Copper Scrap Market Industry is expected to show significant growth in the forecoming years, of which the rising consumption by the construction sector will be one of the drivers.


Increasing Adoption of Electric Vehicles


Another major driver of demand for copper scrap is the increasing adoption of electric vehicles. The growing prevalence of electric vehicles will likewise drive demand for copper scrap in the coming years. The  Copper Scrap Market Industry is expected to grow substantially over the forecast period. The increase in demand is a result of various growth drivers, such as the increasing prevalence of electric vehicles.


Growing Awareness of Environmental Sustainability


The shrinking awareness of environmental sustainability is also provoking the demand for copper scrap. Being a recyclable material, nowadays it is intensively used in the so-called green architecture practices. It is obvious that due to the high consuming rates, this destination seems to be insufficient. Miletsky reports that the  Copper Scrap Market Industry is likely to rise in the coming periods.


Copper Scrap Market Segment Insights


Copper Scrap Market Grade Insights  


The  Copper Scrap Market segment based on Grade depicts a diverse landscape where various grades exhibit distinct attributes and market dynamics. In 2023, the overall value of the  Copper Scrap Market was recorded at 25.91 USD Billion, with remarkable contributions from several grades.


No. 1 Copper Scrap holds a significant position in the market, valued at 9.0 USD Billion in 2023 and showcasing considerable growth projection to 15.45 USD Billion by 2032. This grade's high quality and purity make it a preferred choice for end-users, thereby dominating the market.


Following closely is No. 2 Copper Scrap, valued at 6.5 USD Billion, anticipated to reach 10.72 USD Billion by 2032. Its relatively lower purity compared to No. 1 Copper Scrap still attracts a significant number of buyers, appealing mainly to price-sensitive consumers and maintaining a strong presence in the market.


Millberry Copper Scrap, with a valuation of 5.5 USD Billion in 2023, is essential in the  Copper Scrap Market industry, largely due to its versatility and demand in various applications, which further drives its market position. By 2032, its market valuation is expected to grow to 9.18 USD Billion.


Bare Bright Copper Scrap, valued at 3.5 USD Billion in 2023, is expected to escalate to 5.86 USD Billion, signifying its relevance among recyclers who seek higher purity copper for specialized applications.


Heavy Copper Scrap, while smaller in valuation at 1.41 USD Billion in 2023, is projected to grow to 2.19 USD Billion by 2032, reflecting potential opportunities in specific industrial applications that cater to larger scrap volumes. Additionally, Light Copper Scrap, although a lesser contributor, still plays a role in the market, owing to its easy availability and lower processing costs.


The overall market growth is significantly driven by increasing environmental awareness and sustainability initiatives favoring reclamation and recycling processes. However, challenges such as fluctuating raw material prices and regulatory issues may affect market dynamics. The segmentation of the  Copper Scrap Market data reveals insights into buyer preferences, where higher-grade scrapes such as No. 1 and Bare Bright dominate major transactions due to their quality.


Copper Scrap Market By Grade


Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review


Copper Scrap Market Source Insights  


The  Copper Scrap Market, valued at 25.91 USD Billion in 2023, has garnered significant attention due to its diverse sources. Key sources that contribute to this market include industrial scrap, consumer scrap, construction scrap, and automotive scrap. Among these, industrial scrap plays a crucial role as it is generated through various manufacturing processes and is often characterized by higher purity, making it highly valuable. Consumer scrap, derived from end-of-life products, signifies a growing trend in recycling due to increasing consumer awareness about sustainability.

Construction scrap emerges as another essential source; as construction activities surge ly, the demand for copper scrap from this sector remains substantial. Automotive scrap, gaining prominence with the rise of electric vehicles, offers opportunities for collecting valuable copper components.


The  Copper Scrap Market statistics show that these segments collectively fuel market growth, with driving factors such as industrialization and eco-friendly initiatives further enhancing their importance. However, the market also faces challenges related to regulatory constraints and fluctuations in raw material pricing.

Copper Scrap Market Application Insights  


The  Copper Scrap Market is projected to reach a valuation of 25.91 USD Billion in 2023, with steady growth anticipated across various applications. In this diverse landscape, the Automotive Industry plays a crucial role in driving demand due to its reliance on copper for wiring and components, while the Construction Industry also significantly contributes as copper is essential for plumbing, electrical installations, and roofing. The Electrical  Electronics Industry dominates as well, utilizing recycled copper in motors, transformers, and circuit boards, thus enhancing sustainability efforts.

Meanwhile, the Renewable Energy Sector presents new avenues for growth, as copper is vital for solar panels and wind turbines, reinforcing the transition to clean energy. The Shipbuilding Industry further underscores the versatility of copper scrap, with its usage in marine cables and ship infrastructure. With such varied applications, the  Copper Scrap Market segmentation clearly highlights the importance of these industries in fostering market growth and adapting to evolving technological and environmental standards.


Copper Scrap Market Melting Point Insights  


The  Copper Scrap Market segment focused on melting points reveals significant insights into the industry. The overall market was valued at 25.91 USD billion in 2023, and it is projected to experience robust growth in the coming years. Within this segment, copper scrap is categorized into high-melting point and low-melting point materials, which play essential roles in various applications.


High melting point scrap, typically above 1084C, finds extensive use in industrial applications due to its durability and resistance to deformation, thereby enhancing its demand in sectors like construction and electrical wiring.

Conversely, low melting point scrap, which is below 1084C, is favored for recycling processes, given its ease of processing and suitability for a wide range of products. The interaction between these two categories showcases the diverse nature of the  Copper Scrap Market, highlighting the importance of melting point in determining the utility and processing methods of copper scrap. Market growth is driven by rising demand for recycled materials, stringent environmental regulations, and the increasing need for sustainable practices across industries.

Copper Scrap Market Purity Level Insights  


The  Copper Scrap Market, valued at 25.91 USD Billion in 2023, showcases significant engagement in its Purity Level segment, which comprises the High Purity, Medium Purity, and Low Purity categories. The High Purity segment, characterized by copper scrap with purity levels exceeding 95%, captures notable attention as industries seek refined materials to maximize efficiency and minimize waste. Medium Purity, ranging from 85% to 95%, balances cost-effectiveness with quality, catering to a broad spectrum of applications in manufacturing and construction.

Low-Purity (85%) scraps remain crucial, often used in less stringent applications where cost factors are prioritized over material quality. As the demand for sustainable solutions grows, this segmentation within the  Copper Scrap Market reveals enduring trends driven by environmental regulations and recycling initiatives. Emerging opportunities within the market further highlight the importance of these purity levels, signaling a dynamic response to evolving industry needs. A consistent increase in  recycling efforts is expected to bolster market growth, reflecting a fabric of interrelated factors shaping the market landscape.


Copper Scrap Market Regional Insights  


The  Copper Scrap Market has shown significant growth, with notable segmentation across various regions reflecting diverse market dynamics. In 2023, North America leads with a market value of 7.53 USD Billion, a testament to its industrial activities and recycling initiatives. Europe closely follows with a valuation of 6.12 USD Billion, benefiting from stringent regulations promoting recycling practices. The Asia-Pacific region stands strong at 7.54 USD Billion, driven by rapid urbanization and industrialization, highlighting its major share in the market.

South America, valued at 3.1 USD Billion, showcases a growing trend in metal recycling, albeit with a smaller market share. Meanwhile, the Middle East and Africa present the smallest segment, valued at 1.62 USD Billion, but holds potential for growth as recycling initiatives gain traction. Overall, the regional dynamics of the  Copper Scrap Market reflect significant diversification, with each area contributing uniquely to the overall market growth and strategies.


Copper Scrap Market By Regional


Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review


Copper Scrap Market Key Players And Competitive Insights


The Copper Scrap Market's major players are continuously innovating and developing new technologies to improve the products they offer. The major players in the Copper Scrap Market are expanding their  footprint through M, and heavy investments in new manufacturing facilities. The leading Copper Scrap Market players are investing in research and development R) activities to improve the quality and efficiency of their products. Copper Scrap Market is fueled by the growing demand by various industries such as construction, automotive, and electric, among others. Competitive Landscape of Copper Scrap Market will probably remain fragmented in the upcoming years, with new entrants and well-established companies vying for the market share.



One important competitor in Copper Scrap Market is Sims Metal Management. Sims Metal, listed in ASX is a leading  metals recycling company. Sims Metal has competencies in collecting, recycling, and processing scrap metal from end-of-life vehicles, ships, industrial engines, machinery, and others. Although strictly not registered as a provider in the Copper Scrap Market, Sims Metal has significant ownership of the copper value chain through its  network of recyclers and processing facilities. Sims Metal has been innovative with some proprietary technologies for processing copper scrap. The firm has a processing network that spans over 50 metal processing facilities, mainly in Australasia, Northern Europe, and North America.


Another significant competitor in the Copper Scrap Market is the EMR. Eco Metal Recycling, or the EMR, is another giant in the  metal recycling industry. As in the case of Sims Metal, EMR has a Notable Ownership in the Copper Scrap Market despite not being registered as a provider. EMR competes with the suppliers in the market. The Copper Scrap provided by EMR is probably recycled through its  network of over 250 recycling locations. EMR has also been innovative in its operations and has developed some proprietary technologies for processing copper scrap. The company has been highly active in R&D activities.


Key Companies in the Copper Scrap Market Include



  • Metal Recycling

  • Sims Metal Management Limited

  • Noble Recycling

  • TSR Incorporated

  • Boliden AB

  • Aurubis AG

  • Zekelman Industries, Inc.

  • United States Metals Refining Company

  • Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc.

  • Sims Limited

  • Korea Zinc

  • European Metal Recycling

  • EMR Recycling

  • ArcelorMittal

  • Stena Recycling AB


Copper Scrap Market Industry Developments


The  copper scrap market is projected to reach USD 44.4 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.16% during the forecast period. Rising demand for copper in various industries, including construction, automotive, and electrical, is driving market growth. Moreover, increasing environmental concerns have led to a growing focus on recycling and scrap utilization, further propelling market expansion.

 In January 2023, Sims Metal Management announced plans to invest USD 20 million in its copper recycling facility in Ghent, Belgium, to enhance its processing capacity and sustainability efforts.
 In February 2023, Aurubis AG, a leading copper producer, announced a partnership with Umicore to develop innovative recycling technologies for copper scrap, aiming to reduce carbon emissions and improve resource efficiency.
 In March 2023, the International Copper Association (ICA) launched a new initiative to promote the use of recycled copper in construction, highlighting its environmental benefits and cost-effectiveness.


Copper Scrap Market Segmentation Insights


Copper Scrap Market Grade Outlook



  • 1 Copper Scrap

  • 2 Copper Scrap

  • Millberry Copper Scrap

  • Bare Bright Copper Scrap

  • Heavy Copper Scrap

  • Light Copper Scrap


Copper Scrap Market Source Outlook



  • Industrial Scrap

  • Consumer Scrap

  • Construction Scrap

  • Automotive Scrap


Copper Scrap Market Application Outlook



  • Automotive Industry

  • Construction Industry

  • Electrical Electronics Industry  

  • Renewable Energy Sector

  • Shipbuilding Industry


Copper Scrap Market Melting Point Outlook



  • High Melting Point Scrap (>1084C)

  • Low Melting Point Scrap (1084C)


Copper Scrap Market Purity Level Outlook



  • High Purity (>95%)

  • Medium Purity (85-95%)

  • Low Purity (85%)


Copper Scrap Market Regional Outlook



  • North America

  • Europe

  • South America

  • Asia-Pacific

  • Middle East and Africa

Report Attribute/Metric Details
Market Size 2022 24.41(USD Billion)
Market Size 2023 25.91(USD Billion)
Market Size 2032 44.4(USD Billion)
Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) 6.16% (2024 - 2032)
Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
Base Year 2023
Market Forecast Period 2024 - 2032
Historical Data 2019 - 2022
Market Forecast Units USD Billion
Key Companies Profiled Metal Recycling, Sims Metal Management Limited, Noble Recycling, TSR Incorporated, Boliden AB, Aurubis AG, Zekelman Industries, Inc., United States Metals Refining Company, Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc., Sims Limited, Korea Zinc, European Metal Recycling, EMR Recycling, ArcelorMittal, Stena Recycling AB
Segments Covered Grade, Source, Application, Melting Point, Purity Level, Regional
Key Market Opportunities 1 Rising Demand from Construction2 Growing Electric Vehicle Production3 Technological Advancements in Recycling4 Increasing Environmental Consciousness5 Expansion of Scrap Metal Collection Infrastructure
Key Market Dynamics Growing demand for copper in emerging economies Increasing environmental concerns Technological advancements in recycling processes Fluctuating prices of raw copper Stringent government regulations
Countries Covered North America, Europe, APAC, South America, MEA


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :

The Copper Scrap Market is expected to be valued at 44.4 USD Billion by 2032.

The projected CAGR for the Copper Scrap Market between 2024 and 2032 is 6.16%.

North America is expected to hold the largest market share in the Copper Scrap Market, valued at 11.85 USD Billion by 2032.

The market size of No. 1 Copper Scrap is projected to reach 15.45 USD Billion by 2032.

Sims Metal Management Limited is one of the major players in the Copper Scrap Market.

The Copper Scrap Market in the Asia-Pacific region is valued at 7.54 USD Billion in 2023.

The projected market size for No. 2 Copper Scrap is 10.72 USD Billion by 2032.

The Copper Scrap Market presents growth opportunities driven by increased recycling and sustainability efforts.

The expected market value of Bare Bright Copper Scrap in 2032 is 5.86 USD Billion.

The Asia Pacific region is expected to experience significant growth in the Copper Scrap Market, projected to reach 13.05 USD Billion by 2032.

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