This Issue in Scrap

January/February 2014

Seeking Balance
With 2013’s ups and downs now in the rear-view mirror, recyclers are looking ahead to the new year, which could bring more balanced economic and market conditions. By Joe Pickard

What You Don’t Know…
Today’s domestic and international scrap markets are rife with risks that could stick any recycler with unpaid receivables. Fortunately, risk-management tools such as credit reporting services and credit insurance offer some protection. By Jason Dworin

Polymer Pioneers
SDR Plastics and Star Plastics already are specialists in the custom compounding of engineering thermoplastics and related tolling services, but the recyclers believe diversification will bring them even greater success. By Kent Kiser

CMRA Conference: Beyond the Green Fence
Last fall’s CMRA conference in China had a decidedly green focus, with speakers noting that China is stepping up enforcement of its environmental laws and cracking down on smuggling activity. By Adam Minter

ISRI 2014 Convention Preview: A Las Vegas Love Affair
Like a moth to a neon light, ISRI can’t get enough of Las Vegas. This year’s convention at the Mandalay Bay will feature some big-name speakers and the usual abundance of networking, equipment and service displays, and thought-provoking education sessions.

Safety Series: Energize Your Electrical Safety Practices
Electricity can injure or kill, so employees who work with it in recycling operations must have the requisite training, wear proper protective equipment, and follow safe work practices. By Lee Marchessault

Equipment Focus: Demolition Dust Control
Demolition projects generate dust, but the strategic use of dust-control devices can keep it from being a problem. By Diana Mota

BIR Warsaw: An Industry Under Siege
Trade barriers and still-weak economic conditions worried recyclers at BIR’s fall meeting in Warsaw, Poland. By Joe Pickard and Rachel H. Pollack