E-waste is a unique aspect of the metals recycling industry that’s growing in Indiana. E-waste includes waste materials from electronic products like computers, phones, televisions, or basically anything else with circuit components inside of them. There is a surprising amount of valuable metal inside these items. They are found in small quantities per device, but millions of tons of e-waste are thrown away each year. Copper, silver, gold, platinum, and quite a few other metals that can be recycled. Exurban is one e-waste recycling company that’s making big moves in Indiana currently. They are a firm based in the United Kingdom that plans to create up to 200 new jobs by the end of 2026 in Allen County, IN. Exurban is establishing its first U.S.-based facility with a $340 million investment.
State officials have said the new site will “set new standards in environmental performance,” by reclaiming copper, gold, and silver discarded electronic appliances using sustainable methods. Presently, much of the e-waste produced in the U.S. either ends up in a landfill or is shipped to other countries for scrap recycling. Millions of tons of electronic waste is disposed of every year, and it’s often hazardous for animals, humans, and the environment. “Exurban will create the first zero waste smelter that will generate significant economic impacts throughout the region for generations,” said Governor Eric Holcomb.
“We are excited to announce the site of the world’s first zero waste smelter refinery to offer a domestic, low carbon solution to the global challenge of e-waste,” said Jean Paul Deco, co-founder of Exurban USA. “We are delighted with the welcome we have been given in Indiana, and I am proud that the plant we are announcing will set new standards in recycling critical metals from discarded waste streams.”