Beyond the Bin - Are your Rivets Recyclable?
As manufacturers, engineers, and procurement teams increasingly adopt green procurement strategies, understanding what happens to used rivets—and how to choose recyclable fasteners—can help reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable supply chain.
What Happens to Used Rivets?
Most rivets are used in permanent fastening applications—think aerospace, automotive, and infrastructure—which means they typically aren’t removed or reused. But when structures are dismantled or reach end-of-life, what happens to the fasteners?
The reality is: many rivets end up in landfill or scrap because they’re too small to be sorted efficiently by standard recycling facilities. However, materials matter. Aluminium rivets and stainless steel options have high recycling value. If properly separated from composites and non-metallic components, these materials can be melted down and reused in new products.
According to Recycle Now, 75% of all aluminium ever produced is still in use today, a powerful reminder of the value in recyclable materials.
Recyclable Fasteners: What to Look For
When choosing sustainable rivets, consider both the material and the end-of-life potential:
1. Aluminium Rivets
Aluminium is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and infinitely recyclable. It also takes 95% less energy to recycle aluminium than to produce it from raw materials. For sectors focused on weight reduction and efficiency, aluminium is a no-brainer.
2. Stainless Steel Rivets
Though heavier, stainless steel rivets offer high durability and resistance to extreme environments. Steel is the most recycled material in the world, with a global recycling rate of over 80%, according to World Steel Association.
3. Avoid Mixed-Material Fasteners
Fasteners that combine metals with plastics or rubber components are harder to recycle. Choose simple, mono-material designs when possible for easier end-of-life separation.
Why Recyclable Rivets Matter in Sustainability Goals
Manufacturers are under pressure to reduce carbon emissions and improve the sustainability of their operations. Using recyclable fasteners like aluminium or stainless steel rivets supports:
- Lower carbon footprint
- Circular economy practices
- Better waste management
- Compliance with green procurement policies
And it’s not just about regulations—consumers and clients increasingly demand evidence of environmental responsibility across the entire supply chain.
Making Greener Choices in Procurement
Incorporating recyclable rivets into your green procurement strategy doesn’t mean compromising on performance. It means thinking long-term. Ask suppliers:
- Are your rivets made from recycled materials?
- Can you provide end-of-life disposal guidance?
- What certifications support your sustainability claims?
By prioritising sustainable rivets, you're not just buying a product—you're investing in a cleaner future.
Rivet Recycling: The Future Is Circular
Innovations in recycling technology and material traceability are making it easier to track and recover fasteners at scale. As more OEMs move toward net zero targets, the humble rivet could become a symbol of smart, sustainable engineering.
Ready to Rethink Your Rivets?
At Rivetwise, we help manufacturers source high-performance, recyclable rivets that align with sustainability goals. Whether you're looking for aluminium rivets, stainless steel fasteners, or advice on green procurement strategies, we’ve got the tools—and the knowledge—to support your journey.
👉 Contact our team to learn how we can help reduce your carbon footprint one rivet at a time.
