IGMNiRFive metals, one loop
An industry knowledge base on the production, market and recycling of key non-ferrous metals, and on scrap and waste trade.
The industry's materials
Copper
The metal of electrification and the energy transition, 100% recyclable without loss of properties. Global refined copper production reached about 27.5 million tonnes in 2024 (ICSG); through KGHM, Poland is one of Europe’s leading copper producers.
Aluminium
Lightweight and infinitely recyclable. Recycling aluminium saves about 95% of the energy of primary production (International Aluminium Institute), and around 95% of this metal is recovered from end-of-life vehicles (European Aluminium).
Lead
The most recycled of commonly used metals. In Europe about 99% of lead-acid batteries are recycled, and secondary production accounts for over 70% of global lead supply (International Lead Association).
Zinc
Protects steel from corrosion (galvanizing), extending infrastructure life. It is infinitely recyclable, and about 30% of the zinc used comes from recycling (International Zinc Association).
Ag · Silver
A metal of critical importance for electronics and photovoltaics. Industrial silver demand reached a record 680.5 million ounces in 2024, with photovoltaics accounting for about 29% of it (The Silver Institute). In Poland silver is a by-product of copper metallurgy — KGHM is among the world’s largest silver producers.
Non-ferrous scrap
Copper, aluminium, lead, zinc and electrical & electronic scrap.
Iron & steel scrap
Steel scrap, alloy-steel scrap and cast-iron scrap.