- Global telecom firms aim to generate over $10 billion from copper recycling over 15 years, with $720 million projected for 2025.
- Rising copper demand for electric vehicles and grids raises prices, while operators reinvest proceeds into fibre and wireless networks.
What happened: Telecom giants turn to copper recycling
Global telecom operators, including BT, Telia, Telenor, and Telstra, are set to earn over $10 billion by recycling decommissioned copper cables over the next 15 years, as fibre broadband and wireless networks replace older infrastructure. Telecom recycling firm TXO predicts copper sales could yield up to $720 million in 2025. Operators like Telia and Telenor have already capitalised on these efforts, with Telia generating €25 million to date and projecting €2–3 million for 2025, while Telenor anticipates €68 million in future revenues.
Meanwhile, AT&T has recycled over 32,000 metric tonnes of copper since 2021, reinvesting proceeds into network upgrades. Copper’s current price of $9,170 per metric tonne is expected to rise to $12,000 by 2035, further incentivising recovery efforts.
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Why it’s important
The shift towards recycling copper addresses growing concerns over resource sustainability and supply shortages. With copper demand projected to increase by 70% by 2050 due to its critical role in electricity grids and electric vehicles, the mining industry may struggle to meet future requirements.
Telecom operators’ recycling initiatives mitigate this challenge while offering significant financial returns. These efforts also align with broader environmental goals, reducing the need for extensive mining activities.
As David Evans of TXO highlights, such initiatives not only unlock financial benefits but also contribute to global resource management. By reinvesting copper sale proceeds into fibre and wireless technologies, telecom companies are accelerating network modernisation and sustainability simultaneously.
