What is it?

Scrap metal includes items made primarily of metal that are no longer useful, such as steel, aluminum, copper, and other alloys. Common examples include metal furniture, pipes, wiring, tools, and vehicle parts. Large appliances—often called “white goods”—include items such as refrigerators, freezers, stoves, dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, and hot water heaters. These products are typically made of a mix of metals, plastics, glass, and electronic components.

What is the issue?

Scrap metal and large appliances take up significant space in landfills and can pose environmental risks if not managed properly. Many appliances contain refrigerants, oils, or other substances that can harm the environment if released. When metals are landfilled, valuable resources are lost—even though metals can be recycled repeatedly without losing quality. Improper disposal can also result in sharp edges, bulky items, and safety hazards at landfills or illegal dumping sites.

Recycling scrap metal and appliances conserves natural resources, reduces the need for mining and metal production, and saves energy. For example, recycling steel and aluminum uses far less energy than producing them from raw materials and significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

Where can it go?

Scrap metal and large appliances are widely accepted for recycling across Saskatchewan. Many metal recyclers and scrap yards accept a range of items and may even pay for certain types of metal, depending on market value. Use our Waste Reduction Hub to find scrap metal recyclers, appliance depots, and transfer stations near you.

• Scrap Metal – Most scrap yards accept ferrous metals (like steel and iron) and non-ferrous metals (like aluminum, copper, and brass). Items should be as free as possible from non-metal components to improve recyclability.
• Large Appliances – Many municipal landfills, transfer stations, and scrap metal recyclers accept large appliances. Appliances containing refrigerants (such as refrigerators, freezers, and air conditioners) must be handled by experts equipped to safely remove and manage these substances.

What happens after?

Once collected, scrap metal is sorted by type and processed for recycling. Metals are shredded, melted down, and reformed into raw material that can be used to manufacture new products such as construction materials, vehicles, appliances, and metal packaging.

Large appliances are dismantled so that metals, plastics, and other materials can be separated. Refrigerants and oils are safely removed and managed according to environmental regulations. The recovered metals are then sent to smelters and manufacturers to be made into new products, keeping valuable resources in circulation.

How can I reduce?

• Repair when possible – Fixing appliances or metal items can extend their lifespan and delay disposal.
• Buy durable products – Choose appliances and metal goods designed to last and that have repair options available.
• Reuse or donate – If an appliance or metal item still works, consider selling, donating, or giving it away.
• Maintain appliances properly – Regular maintenance can help appliances run efficiently and last longer.

Reducing waste at the source, reusing items where possible, and recycling responsibly all help support a more circular economy for metals and appliances in Saskatchewan.