Demand for Copper Scrap in USA

Demand for Copper Scrap in USA 2025 to 2035

Demand for copper scrap in the USA is projected to grow from USD 10.80 billion in 2025 to approximately USD 24.10 billion by 2035, recording an absolute increase of USD 13.30 billion over the forecast period. This translates into a total growth of 123.15%, with demand forecast to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.70% between 2025 and 2035.

The overall demand size is expected to grow by 2.2 times during the same period, supported by expanding clean energy infrastructure programs, technological advancement in automated sorting systems, rising demand for circular economy solutions, and growing adoption of secondary copper utilization throughout the USA.

Quick Stats for USA Copper Scrap Industry

• USA Copper Scrap Sales Value (2025): USD 10.80 billion
• USA Copper Scrap Forecast Value (2035): USD 24.10 billion
• USA Copper Scrap Forecast CAGR: 8.70%
• Leading Material Type in USA Copper Scrap Industry: Old Scrap (53.40%)
• Key Growth Regions in USA Copper Scrap Industry: West, Northeast, South, Midwest
• Regional Leadership: West holds the leading position in demand
• Key Players in USA Copper Scrap Industry: Aurubis AG, Glencore plc, Commercial Metals Company, OmniSource LLC, Ames Copper Group, KGHM Metraco S.A., Global Metals & Iron Inc., S.I.C. Recycling Inc., Pascha GmbH, Jain Resource Recycling Private Limited

The old scrap segment is projected to account for 53.40% of copper scrap demand in 2025. Old scrap applications are widely used in the USA for metal recovery, recycling operations, and secondary copper production where material availability, processing efficiency, and proven resource conservation remain essential for industrial productivity and environmental optimization.

The electrical and electronics segment is expected to represent 42.80% of copper scrap demand in 2025. Electrical and electronics applications are fundamental to the industry because they provide the essential material requirements, processing capabilities, and cost-effective recycling operations required for transformer production, wiring systems, motor manufacturing, and electronic component systems.

Between 2020 and 2025, copper scrap demand in the USA experienced steady expansion, driven by increasing environmental regulations and growing recognition of secondary copper requirements for industrial efficiency and resource optimization. The sector developed as metal processors and recycling enterprises, especially in major industrial regions, recognized the need for specialized copper recovery solutions and effective recycling systems to achieve sustainability objectives while meeting environmental standards and operational requirements. Industrial companies and metal recyclers began emphasizing technology innovation and processing efficiency to maintain competitive advantages and environmental excellence.

Between 2025 and 2030, demand for copper scrap in the USA is projected to expand from USD 10.80 billion to USD 16.30 billion, resulting in a value increase of USD 5.50 billion, which represents 41.35% of the total forecast growth for the decade. This phase of growth will be shaped by accelerating clean energy transition, rising electric vehicle adoption, and growing resource efficiency requirements for modern manufacturing systems across USA regions, particularly in areas where industrial infrastructure and recycling development initiatives are accelerating copper scrap adoption. Increasing integration of automated sorting systems and growing adoption of advanced processing platforms continue to drive demand.

Metal processing companies and copper scrap suppliers are expanding their recycling capabilities to address the growing complexity of modern industrial requirements and efficiency standards, with USA operations leading investments in conventional processing enhancement methods and effective material optimization systems.

From 2030 to 2035, demand is forecast to grow from USD 16.30 billion to USD 24.10 billion, adding another USD 7.80 billion, which constitutes 58.65% of the overall ten-year expansion. This period is expected to be characterized by expansion of specialized recycling applications, development of enhanced material recovery capabilities, and implementation of comprehensive copper scrap processing programs across different industrial and manufacturing sectors. The growing adoption of advanced automation systems and enhanced efficiency platforms, particularly in major industrial centers and processing operations, will drive demand for more sophisticated recycling solutions and validated material recovery systems.

USA Copper Scrap Industry Key Takeaways

Metric	Value
USA Copper Scrap Sales Value (2025)	USD 10.80 billion
USA Copper Scrap Forecast Value (2035)	USD 24.10 billion
USA Copper Scrap Forecast CAGR (2025-2035)	8.70%

Why is the USA Copper Scrap Industry Growing?

The USA copper scrap industry is experiencing robust growth, primarily fueled by a parallel expansion in the broader clean energy transition sector. A significant surge in demand for both environmental compliance and advanced recycling equipment has created a larger base of industrial operators, manufacturing enterprises, and metal processing companies requiring reliable copper scrap products. Furthermore, changing environmental regulations and resource efficiency standards mandate the use of effective recycling systems for optimal material recovery and industrial productivity optimization. This sustainability-driven demand establishes a consistent, efficiency-based foundation. As new operators enter the secondary copper segment and existing industrial practices are modernized, the need for standard-issue and specialized copper scrap products forms a stable foundation for the industry's growth, ensuring a continuous stream of customers driven by environmental necessity and operational efficiency.

Technological innovation serves as a powerful secondary engine for this growth. Modern copper scrap processing systems are no longer just basic recycling equipment; they are advanced material recovery products. The rapid adoption of automated sorting technologies has become a major selling point, significantly reducing processing complexity and enhancing material recovery efficiency. Beyond traditional options, manufacturers are integrating advanced automation features for seamless incorporation with digitally conscious recycling approaches, and compatibility with various industrial efficiency requirements. These features, coupled with improvements in processing efficiency, system convenience, and product reliability, are compelling both industrial and manufacturing operators to upgrade from basic recycling systems, driving a cycle of replacement and premiumization within the industry.

The industry is benefiting from evolving industrial dynamics and a heightened focus on circular economy experience. An increasing emphasis on resource efficiency, particularly exploration of advanced recycling technologies, is pushing demand for higher-quality, more diverse copper scrap varieties. The segment has also expanded beyond traditional industrial channels, with growing interest from the construction sector, automotive applications, and even renewable energy units. This diversification, combined with the rise of specialized platforms that improve accessibility for all operators, ensures that suppliers can reach a wider audience than ever before. This confluence of efficiency, innovation, and accessibility creates a fertile ground for continued industry expansion.

Opportunity Pathways - Demand for Copper Scrap in the USA

The copper scrap demand in the USA is positioned for strong and steady expansion, growing from USD 10.80 billion in 2025 to USD 24.10 billion by 2035, reflecting an 8.7% CAGR. This growth is driven by the rising adoption of advanced, automated processing systems in industrial recycling, metal recovery, and secondary production applications. Operators are seeking specialized copper scrap solutions that maximize material recovery efficiency, processing capabilities, and industrial productivity amidst evolving environmental standards. Additionally, demand from clean energy trends, circular economy innovations, and automated processing implementations strengthens opportunities for both high-performance material configurations and integrated recycling technology solutions. Suppliers focusing on automated sorting systems, advanced material processing, and technical support stand to gain from evolving industrial landscapes and operator expectations for material reliability, efficiency assurance, and technical documentation completeness.

• Pathway A - Large-Scale Industrial Manufacturing Operations: Industrial operators face escalating demand for reliable, high-quality copper scrap for extensive metal production and manufacturing applications. Solutions targeting electrical manufacturing, construction materials, and industrial equipment can achieve strong adoption through optimized processing capacity, material efficiency, and multi-application compatibility. Estimated revenue opportunity: USD 4.12-5.62 billion.
• Pathway B - Clean Energy Infrastructure Integration: The energy industry requires increasingly sophisticated recycling and secondary copper solutions. Collaborations with technology developers for integrated clean energy systems (e.g., renewable energy, electric vehicles, grid infrastructure) can unlock long-term supply contracts and partnerships. Estimated revenue opportunity: USD 3.50-4.76 billion.
• Pathway C - Automotive and Transportation Applications: Growth in electric vehicle production, automotive manufacturing, and transportation infrastructure creates robust demand for specialized copper scrap materials. Suppliers offering proven automotive-grade materials with exceptional processing capabilities and operational versatility can build strategic relationships with top-tier manufacturing operators. Estimated revenue opportunity: USD 2.92-3.97 billion.
• Pathway D - Construction and Building Services: Expanding requirements for building materials and construction applications are driving preference for versatile, high-performance copper materials. Suppliers offering copper scrap with exceptional reliability and multi-application capability can differentiate offerings and attract construction-focused organizations. Estimated revenue opportunity: USD 2.35-3.20 billion.
• Pathway E - Electronic Manufacturing Programs: Critical applications in electronics production, consumer goods manufacturing, and technology initiatives require specialized copper scrap configurations with advanced purity features, quality characteristics, and processing-friendly systems. Suppliers investing in electronics-focused solutions can secure advantages in this growing segment. Estimated revenue opportunity: USD 1.84-2.50 billion.
• Pathway F - Technical Service, Processing & Support Systems: Comprehensive support networks offering material processing guidance, operator training programs, and technical documentation create recurring partnership opportunities. Companies building strong service capabilities can capture ongoing relationships and enhance customer operational excellence. Estimated revenue opportunity: USD 1.29-1.75 billion.

Segmental Analysis

The industry is segmented by feed material, grade, and region. By feed material, the industry is divided into old scrap, new scrap, and specialty materials. In terms of grade, the industry is divided into #2 copper scrap, bare bright copper, mixed copper materials, premium grades, and others. By application, the industry is divided into building & construction, electrical & electronics, industrial machinery, transportation equipment, consumer products, and others. Regionally, the industry is divided into West, Northeast, South, and Midwest.

Why Does Old Scrap Account for High Share of 53.40%?

The old scrap segment is projected to account for 53.40% of copper scrap demand in 2025, making it the leading material type across the sector. This dominance reflects the material availability requirements and processing efficiency needs of recycling systems for existing industrial facilities and manufacturing applications where material recovery is optimized through established performance characteristics and integrated multi-source architecture.

In the USA, where substantial industrial infrastructure requires material integration without complete system redesign, old scrap solutions provide practical pathways for recycling enhancement while maintaining cost preferences. Continuous innovations are improving processing efficiency, material reliability, and performance parameters, enabling industrial operators to achieve high recovery standards while maximizing cost effectiveness.

• Cost compatibility and existing system integration make old scrap the preferred material type for enhancing industrial facilities and manufacturing operations.
• Processing reliability and performance demonstration track records are enhancing operator confidence and production viability across large-scale adoption initiatives.

Why Do Electrical and Electronics Account for High Share of 42.80%?

Electrical and electronics applications are expected to represent 42.80% of copper scrap demand in 2025, reflecting the critical role of electronic component processing requiring comprehensive recycling solutions. Electrical and electronics operations including transformer projects, motor facilities, and wiring systems generate consistent demand for copper scrap that supports effective industrial utilization and productivity optimization.

Copper scrap systems are widely adopted for electrical production facilities due to significant efficiency benefits and enhanced material processing capabilities. Their reliable, high-performance operation provides effective, cost-efficient industrial production solutions, enhancing operational independence for manufacturing operators.

• Electronic component requirements and processing efficiency operations drive substantial demand for specialized copper scrap designed for electrical applications.
• Productivity optimization and operational efficiency demands create consistent industrial production requirements across major manufacturing regions and processing facilities.

What are the Drivers, Restraints, and Key Trends in the USA Copper Scrap Industry?

The demand for copper scrap in the USA is advancing steadily due to increasing environmental requirements and growing recognition of advanced recycling necessity for operational efficiency, with the West region serving as a key driver of innovation and industrial advancement. The sector faces challenges including material quality consistency optimization, processing enhancement complexity, and ongoing concerns regarding operational cost considerations and efficiency variations.

Growth in Environmental Infrastructure Development and Clean Energy Programs

The enhancement of recycling standards, gaining particular significance through environmental regulation trends and efficiency education campaigns, is enabling copper scrap providers to achieve differentiation without prohibitive development costs, providing predictable demand patterns through environmental requirements and operator preferences. Enhanced recycling standards offering substantial opportunities for copper scrap systems and integrated applications provide foundational dynamics while allowing providers to secure industrial facility agreements and distribution partnerships.

Deployment of Advanced Automated Processing Capabilities and High-Performance Efficiency Systems

Modern copper scrap providers and industrial operators are establishing advanced processing networks and centralized recycling facilities that improve operational efficiency through process standardization and material analytics. Integration of efficiency enhancement systems, high-performance processing technology, and coordinated quality management enables more effective industrial operations across multiple manufacturing regions.

Development of Circular Economy Systems and Enhanced Material Targeting Methods

The expansion of circular economy systems and material segmentation is driving development of specialized copper scrap systems with enhanced purity profiles, improved processing characteristics, and optimized efficiency attributes that address current limitations and expand industrial applications beyond traditional copper scrap. These specialized systems require sophisticated processing capabilities and performance expertise that exceed traditional industrial requirements, creating specialized demand segments with differentiated efficiency propositions. Producers are investing in material targeting and processing optimization to serve emerging industrial applications while supporting innovation in performance development and efficiency engagement.

Analysis of USA Copper Scrap Demand by Key Region

Region	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
West	9.10%
Northeast	8.80%
South	8.50%
Midwest	8.30%

The USA copper scrap demand is witnessing steady growth, supported by rising environmental requirements, expanding clean energy initiatives, and the deployment of advanced processing technologies across regions. West leads the nation with a 9.10% CAGR, reflecting a strong innovation-conscious base, substantial industrial development, and established recycling advancement facilities.

Why Does the West Region Lead Copper Scrap Demand?

Demand for copper scrap in West is projected to exhibit strong growth with a CAGR of 9.10% through 2035, driven by a strong innovation-conscious industrial base, substantial manufacturing development creating premium recycling opportunities, and a concentration of environmental advancement across California, Oregon, Washington, Nevada, and surrounding states.

Advanced clean energy programs and circular economy initiatives are expanding copper scrap adoption among operators, industrial facilities, and material suppliers pursuing efficiency optimization, environmental development, and specialized recycling projects throughout major industrial hubs and manufacturing corridors.

• Innovation consciousness base and industrial infrastructure capabilities are requiring comprehensive recycling strategies and efficiency solutions, driving demand for copper scrap systems with demonstrated environmental enhancement capabilities and permanent sustainability assurance throughout diverse industrial operations.
• Manufacturing development and industrial concentration are generating substantial copper scrap demand across processing companies, operators, and efficiency suppliers serving recycling applications and industrial requirements.

Why Does the Northeast Region Demonstrate Strong Growth?

Demand for copper scrap in Northeast is projected to grow with a CAGR of 8.80% through 2035, supported by established industrial presence, comprehensive manufacturing development, and strong processing facilities across New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and surrounding states.

Established industrial presence and manufacturing leadership are supporting copper scrap adoption throughout operator facilities, recycling operations, and efficiency distribution centers serving environmental enhancement and processing applications.

• Strong industrial ecosystem and manufacturing networks are enabling copper scrap integration across efficiency producers, operators, and processing suppliers pursuing advanced environmental development and industrial programs.
• Premium manufacturing capabilities and efficiency excellence are driving copper scrap demand among leading industrial corporations, processing centers, and specialized efficiency firms focused on environmental enhancement, recycling optimization, and operational development targeting industrial applications and advanced manufacturing operations.

What Factors Underpin Copper Scrap Demand in South Region?

Demand for copper scrap in South is forecast to advance with a CAGR of 8.50% through 2035, driven by expanding industrial capabilities, growing recycling investment, and increasing efficiency consciousness across Texas, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and surrounding states.

Rising manufacturing sector development and industrial partnerships are supporting copper scrap integration across processing producers, operator facilities, and efficiency distributors pursuing environmental enhancement, industrial expansion, and recycling initiatives throughout expanding industrial regions and urban centers.

• Growing industrial infrastructure and manufacturing investment are creating opportunities for copper scrap adoption across emerging recycling hubs, operator facilities, and efficiency distribution centers in major metropolitan areas and industrial corridors.
• Environmental expansion and efficiency growth are driving copper scrap demand among industrial operators seeking enhanced environmental capabilities and participation in advanced recycling programs.

What Boosts Consistent Demand in the Midwest Region?

Demand for copper scrap in Midwest is expected to expand with a CAGR of 8.30% through 2035, supported by processing manufacturing capabilities, industrial infrastructure development, and growing operator efficiency presence across Illinois, Ohio, Wisconsin, Michigan, and surrounding states.

Efficiency expertise and production capabilities are driving copper scrap demand among processing producers, industrial suppliers, and manufacturing operators serving copper scrap production and environmental applications.

• Growing recycling development and manufacturing investment are supporting copper scrap adoption across emerging production hubs, industrial facilities, and operator centers pursuing environmental enhancement and processing programs.
• Expanding industrial infrastructure and recycling integration are creating opportunities for copper scrap utilization across efficiency suppliers, industrial production facilities, and operator operations seeking environmental copper scrap production, efficiency support, and manufacturing capabilities throughout major industrial regions and emerging operator efficiency centers.

Competitive Landscape of USA Copper Scrap Industry

USA copper scrap demand is defined by competition among established metal processing corporations, specialized recycling companies, and integrated industrial producers, with major operator organizations maintaining significant influence through processing resources and manufacturing capabilities. Companies are investing in copper scrap advancement, recycling optimization, efficiency acceptance technologies, and comprehensive environmental services to deliver effective, reliable, and efficient industrial solutions across USA manufacturing and operator applications.

Aurubis AG dominates with a 18.50% share, offering comprehensive recycling solutions including advanced processing, environmental enhancement technologies, and distribution services with a focus on industrial applications, efficiency consistency, and recycling optimization across USA operations. The company continues investing in recycling programs, distribution strategies, and copper scrap innovation while expanding operational presence and advanced operator applications.

Glencore plc provides specialized recycling solutions with emphasis on environmental development and manufacturing excellence. Commercial Metals Company focuses on premium copper scrap development and industrial applications. OmniSource LLC emphasizes environmental development and specialized operator material production. Ames Copper Group offers recycling technology solutions and professional environmental support. KGHM Metraco S.A. specializes in industrial copper scrap development and distribution programs.

Key Players in USA Copper Scrap Industry

• Aurubis AG
• Glencore plc
• Commercial Metals Company
• OmniSource LLC
• Ames Copper Group
• KGHM Metraco S.A.
• Global Metals & Iron Inc.
• S.I.C. Recycling Inc.
• Pascha GmbH
• Jain Resource Recycling Private Limited
• Nucor Corporation
• Steel Dynamics Inc.
• Schnitzer Steel Industries Inc.
• Sims Limited
• European Metal Recycling Limited

Scope of the Report

Item	Value
Quantitative Units	USD 24.10 billion
Feed Material	Old Scrap, New Scrap, Specialty Materials
Grade	#2 Copper Scrap, Bare Bright Copper, Mixed Copper Materials, Premium Grades, Others
Application	Electrical & Electronics, Building & Construction, Industrial Machinery, Transportation Equipment, Consumer Products, Others
Regions Covered	West, Northeast, South, Midwest
Key Companies Profiled	Aurubis AG, Glencore plc, Commercial Metals Company, OmniSource LLC, Ames Copper Group, KGHM Metraco S.A., Global Metals & Iron Inc., S.I.C. Recycling Inc., Pascha GmbH, Jain Resource Recycling Private Limited, Nucor Corporation, Steel Dynamics Inc., Schnitzer Steel Industries Inc., Sims Limited, European Metal Recycling Limited
Additional Attributes	Sales by feed material and grade segment, regional demand trends across West, Northeast, South, and Midwest, competitive landscape with established metal processing corporations and recycling suppliers, operator facility preferences for old scrap versus specialty materials, integration with industrial facilities and advanced recycling optimization policies particularly advanced in West region

USA Copper Scrap Industry by Segments

• Feed Material :

  • Old Scrap
  • New Scrap
  • Specialty Materials

• Grade :

  • #2 Copper Scrap
  • Bare Bright Copper
  • Mixed Copper Materials
  • Premium Grades
  • Others

• Application :

  • Electrical & Electronics
  • Building & Construction
  • Industrial Machinery
  • Transportation Equipment
  • Consumer Products
  • Others

• Region :

  • West
  • Northeast
  • South
  • Midwest