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International Workshop on Recycling of Metals  

The Workshop on Recycling Metals – Enhancing Recycling in Emerging Markets held 10–12 September 2003 was hosted by the Government of Russia at the St. Petersburg State Mining Institute.  The Workshop was organised by the International Copper Study Group, the International Lead and Zinc Study Group, and the International Nickel Study Group, with further sponsorship from the UN Common Fund for Commodities.

The Workshop brought together over 100 participants including governments (policy makers/regulators), representatives of industry (metal recyclers, traders, collectors), and other stakeholders to examine the challenges and benefits of metals recycling, share experiences with different jurisdictions from around the world, and to look at metal-bearing recyclable materials as valuable, globally traded commodities. 

Particular emphasis was placed on issues concerning developing countries.  To this end the Workshop was structured to give participants the opportunity to discuss recycling policies and practises, recycling markets and information as well as recycling technology and innovation, focusing mainly on developing countries and countries with economies in transition.

Recycling Policy:  In the area of recycling policy the issues of Environmentally Sound Management (ESM), waste definition and classification, trade distorting measures and scrap supply deficits were discussed. 

Delegates agreed that there needed to be range of flexible policy options that enhanced recycling without hindering current successes, and that there needed to be a change in perception to define recyclables as input materials and not wastes.

Recycling Markets:   Discussion on recycling markets and information also highlighted the role of market distortions (such as scrap trade restrictions and protectionist measures) in determining future scrap supplies. Delegates discussed the feasibility of creating a global level playing field for scrap recycling and how scrap trade restrictions could be discouraged. They also emphasised the importance of data of recycling and the need for co-ordinated data collection. The complexity and responsibility for data gathering was discussed.        

Recycling Technology and Innovation:  The discussions on recycling technology and innovation considered the concept of best available technology (BAT), design options for re-use or life extension and the need for modular approaches that enable new procedures and facilities to be added as recycling businesses improve profitability and proficiency.

To obtain a copy of the Workshop Proceedings, presentations, and summary of outcomes, contact the ICSG Secretariat (mail@icsg.org).