With the fast development of the nonferrous metal industry in recent years in China, the recycling economies for the development of the nonferrous metal industry are facing three challenges: the shortage of resources, strained energy supplies and environmental pollution.

The nonferrous metal industry has witnessed a sustainable and fast growth in the country with the total output reaching the first in the world during recent years. The output of the ten common nonferrous metals in the country reached 14.3 million tons last year. China has become a main producer and consumer in the world, reports People's Daily on Monday.

At the same time, the shortage of mineral resources is becoming evident with each passing day. As a result, imported raw materials are on increase annually with more dependence on foreign supply for the industry. There mainly exist four problems in the development of the recycling economies in the country's nonferrous metal industry, according to Kang Yi, director of the China Nonferrous Metal Industry Association.

The utilization efficiency for resources needs improving. The utilization rate for the nonferrous metal mineral resources in the country is 60 per cent, 10 to 15 percentage points lower than that of developed countries. The comprehensive utilization rate for associated nonferrous metals is only 40 per cent, 20 percentage points lower than that of foreign nations. In addition, parts of nonferrous mines are in disorder with random mining, causing severe wastes of resources.

The resource-reclaiming industry is not strong. In comparison with developed countries, the proportion for the reclaimed output of nonferrous metals is comparatively lower. For example, reclaimed aluminum accounted for 21 per cent of the total output, reclaimed copper 30 per cent, lead 17 per cent and zinc even lower in 2003.

Energy consumption per unit and raw material consumption are lower than that of the international advanced level. And the problem of environmental pollution is still not solved basically.

One third of recycled copper and aluminum are from home supply while two thirds are imported from abroad. And the imports are still increasing.

To solve these problems, experts suggest that structural adjustment be necessary to build a saving and recycling oriented industry and waste be curbed.

By People's Daily Online