Can a Shipping Container Be Recycled?
Shipping containers play a critical role in the transportation of goods globally.
As such, you can imagine there are millions of shipping containers across the world, and with the need to be conscious on wasted materials and their effects on the environment, it’s good to ask the question: can a shipping container be recycled?
Why Do We Need Shipping Containers?
Shipping containers are used across many types of freight, whether that be rail or shipping. It’s vital in getting ecommerce cargo from A to B. Serving as temporary storage at ports, distribution centres and streamline the loading and unloading process as the busy logistic centres.
Not only this, but containers also provide a standard unit for packaging and can enhance inventory management.
However, as you can imagine constant exposure to adverse weather conditions can have an effect. However, shipping containers can last on average up to ten years.
Once a container is deemed no longer viable for logistics, it does not necessarily mean it is no longer useful. Due to the materials, they are perfect for recycling and upcycling.
Why Recycle Shipping Containers?
Predominantly, these containers are made of steel. Its strength and versatility make it perfect for a plethora of things. Did you know that each tonne of recycled steel saves 1.5 tonnes of iron ore, half a tonne of coal and can significantly reduce energy usage?
Challenges to Recycling a Shipping Container
Whilst it may be beneficial to recycle, it can pose some difficulties. For example, where? It’s not as if you can take it to a local centre. You need to find a specialised company to handle the scrapping or repurposing of the gain containers.
They will then dismantle the containers, sorting the steel for recycling which can be melted down and reused.
However, the containers are not just being dismantled and melted they are often being upcycled into quirky venues or boutiques. Recycling shipping containers isn’t just about reusing old materials; it’s about reimagining the potential of what many consider waste, turning it into something both beautiful and useful.
At Transmode, we work closely with shipping containers through our container haulage services so it’s great to see them being used after their logistic benefits and the positive effect they can have on the environment.
If you’re looking for more information on container haulage please don’t hesitate to get in touch.