Measuring the Economic Performance of Virgin and Urban Mining for Copper and Aluminum

Abstract

Virgin mining is rapidly becoming unsustainable as primary resources are in increasingly short supply and energy consumption continues to increase. Urban mining for scrap metal has emerged as a promising option for securing copper and aluminum resources. However, the sustainability and viability of this industry are heavily dependent on its profitability. Here, we demonstrate the economic benefits of urban mining for three types of urban mines: e-waste, end-of-life vehicles, and waste wiring and cables. The material and cost flows associated with urban mining are examined. Through cost-benefit analysis, the cost of obtaining one ton of copper or aluminum is found to be, on average, 3,000 US$ or 1,660 US$, which is significantly lower than the cost of virgin mining. Moreover, in terms of the economic performance, copper may differ tremendously from aluminum depending on the type of urban mines.