âThe scrap trade database is a one-stop shop that brings together for the first time statistics dedicated solely to the cross-border movement of scrap. This collection of information will prove valuable for traders, brokers, market analysts, government agencies, the press, and all those interested in the global recycling industry,â said Joe Pickard, chief economist for ISRI. âIt also provides scrap processors and consumers insights to burgeoning markets and potential opportunities that can help grow their businesses. The data will also prove beneficial to the public as it showcases the critical role recycling plays in the global economy, and how scrap flows are deeply connected to developments in manufacturing. In addition, it demonstrates the importance of maintaining the free and fair trade of scrap around the world.â
The database is being released in advance of ISRIâs annual convention and exposition being held April 22-27, in New Orleans. The initial offering of international scrap trade figures covers volume flows in metric tonnage from 2005 to 2015 for ferrous scrap, nonferrous scrap, plastic scrap, and recovered paper. Tables for other recycled commodities and charts to help visualize trade flows are in development.
As an added benefit tied to the database, ISRI members can now request custom trade reports by scrap commodity, trading partner, volume, and dollar value by contacting ISRI Research Analyst Bernie Lee.