Scrapyards

Scrapyards are facilities that recover value from obsolete vehicles, machinery, and metal waste by collecting, dismantling, and processing items for resale or recycling. The term is often used for metal recycling yards; salvage yards or auto recyclers specialize in vehicle parts, while junkyards may hold a broader mix of items. Scrapyards operate as intermediaries between waste generators and metal recyclers, fabrication plants, and parts consumers.

Operations typically begin with intake, assessment, and documentation. Hazardous materials and fluids are removed to meet environmental requirements, including fuel, oil, coolant, batteries, refrigerants, and asbestos where present. Items are dismantled to recover usable parts, sorted by material type (ferrous and nonferrous metals, plastics, glass). Reusable components may be cleaned and sold as secondhand parts; nonfunctional items are shredded or baled for smelting and recycling. Recovered metals are melted and refined to feed steel mills and metal producers.

Economically, scrapyards support resource conservation, supply recycled metals, and provide affordable parts for repairs. They also contribute to local employment and reduce landfill volume. The scale and practices of yards vary by region and regulatory environment, from small family businesses to large industrial facilities.

Environmental and safety considerations are central, with rules governing waste handling, air and water emissions, spill prevention, and worker safety. Scrapyards operate under permits and industry standards aimed at pollution prevention and safe handling of hazardous materials. Over time, recycling efficiency and technology have improved yield and environmental performance.