The global non-ferrous scrap recycling market size is expected to reach USD 895.1 billion by 2033, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 3.6% from 2026 to 2033. This growth is attributed to increasing awareness about recycling and technological advancements that are improving recovery rate of metals from scrap. As the world moves toward a more sustainable future, there is a growing demand for non-ferrous metals, such as copper, brass, and aluminum, which are essential components in renewable energy systems and EVs.
Furthermore, an increase in number of EVs in the market is expected to drive demand for non-ferrous metals across the world. For instance, in India, per capita consumption of copper is anticipated to rise from current 0.6 kg to 1.0 kg by 2025, driven by advancements in energy transition and adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), according to a report by NITI Aayog.
The market comprises a diverse and expanding industry with a wide range of metals such as aluminum, copper, lead, nickel, tin, and zinc. Advanced separation techniques are an important aspect of this market, as they help recycle and extract valuable metals from scrap. The techniques used for separation include eddy current separation, magnetic separation, density separation, and flotation.
Asia Pacific's dominance can be attributed to high demand for aluminum and copper in the region, along with a rising emphasis on decarbonization of economies and promoting circular economy concept. China’s rapid industrialization and urbanization is one of the key growth drivers for the market, leading to substantial demand for metals in sectors such as construction, automotive, and electronics.
The market is characterized by an increasing number of mergers and acquisitions across various regions. Leading firms in the industry are strategically investing in smaller companies that have adopted cutting-edge technologies, streamlined operations, and established a strong presence in niche markets. For instance, in December 2023, Rio Tinto along with Giampaolo Group established a joint venture named Matalco, Inc. The joint venture represents a strategic partnership between the foremost primary aluminum producer in North America and leading secondary aluminum producers.
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Aluminum dominated the non-ferrous scrap recycling market in 2025, accounting for the largest revenue share, and is also expected to register the highest CAGR over the forecast period.
The construction sector held the largest share of the industry in 2025, driven by extensive use of metals such as aluminum and copper in building infrastructure, wiring, roofing, and structural applications.
The non-ferrous scrap recycling market in Asia Pacific dominates the global industry in terms of volume, led by countries such as China, India, and Japan.
Grand View Research has segmented the global non-ferrous scrap recycling market on the basis of metal, sector, and region:
Non-ferrous Scrap Recycling Metal Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Copper
Aluminum
Lead
Others
Non-ferrous Scrap Recycling Sector Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Construction
Automotive
Consumer Goods
Industrial Goods
Non-ferrous Scrap Recycling Regional Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
North America
U.S.
Canada
Mexico
Europe
Germany
France
UK
Russia
Turkey
Asia Pacific
China
India
Japan
Latin America
Brazil
Middle East & Africa
List of Key Players in the Non-ferrous Scrap Recycling Market
Aurubis AG
Chiho Environmental Group Limited
Hindalco Industries Ltd.
Kuusakoski
Matalco Inc.
OmniSource Corp.
Recyclex
SA Recycling LLC
Sims Metal Management Inc.
TSR Recycling GmbH & Co. KG
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