Perhaps there’s a junk car taking up space in your yard or driveway. It may surprise you to learn that up to 80% of each car is recyclable and subsequently highly desired by scrap yards. Recycling remains a fantastic way to earn cash for junk cars and trucks—but there are other great benefits, as a local towing and salvage service explains:

Contributes to a Greener Planet

Vehicles are the most recycled product in the world. Over 25 million tons of material are recycled from old cars and trucks every year, with nearly 12 million cars recycled in the United States annually. Almost 8 million junk cars and trucks are recycled each year in Europe. Automobile recycling contributes to a greener, healthier planet not only because it creates significantly less trash, but also because it reclaims hazardous fluids. The amount of such fluids reclaimed by recyclers is equivalent to eight substantial oil spills. Auto recycling also saves about 85 million oil barrels every year.

Creates Jobs & Revenue

The junk car and truck recycling industry ranks 16th in the United States and adds $25 billion per year to the national GDP. This industry provides jobs for about 100,000 citizens, with some 7,000 auto salvage yards and recycling facilities currently operating in the U.S. The auto recycling industry also keeps small businesses in operation, as over 75% of such companies feature staffs of about 10 people.

Provides Viable Materials

Auto salvage yards and similar businesses provide materials for many other products. They produce about 37% of all ferrous metal used in smelters and blast furnaces. Tires are another highly recyclable vehicle component used to make a number of products, from men’s and women’s sandals and synthetic turf to walkway surfaces and traffic control products—and beyond. Recycled steel from junk cars and trucks is also put to excellent use, as it is frequently utilized when building new cars.

Rudy’s Towing & Auto Salvage in Philadelphia, PA, happily contributes to the auto recycling industry. As the area’s premier scrap yard, the company offers cash for junk cars and provides free pickup services. Call (267) 235-9421 for a free quote or visit the website to learn more about scrap yard services. Follow the auto salvage yard on Twitter for a steady stream of great tips.