Did you know that precious metals refining helps protect the world’s waterways by reducing the need for newly-mined materials? Mining operations use large volumes of water, often creating pollution through runoff and heavy metal contamination. Recycling can mitigate these harms by decreasing the need for those water-intensive processes in the first place.
At Garfield Refining, we take pride in contributing to a more sustainable supply chain of precious metals by recycling gold, silver, platinum and palladium scrap.
Helping to offset the demand for traditionally extracted materials, which ultimately supports healthier waterways, is just one of the positive impacts of metal recycling.
But our impact doesn’t stop there – we’re also dedicated to protecting our local waterways right here in Philadelphia, where our refinery has been headquartered since 1892. That’s why we work with the TTF Watershed Partnership to keep our local creek clean.
Sustainability, Philly Style
Each year our team hosts a company-wide volunteer event to celebrate Earth Day, and it typically involves supporting local green spaces. This year we did a park clean-up, picking up trash and planting trees at Tacony Creek Park. This park is especially close to our hearts because it neighbors our refinery – one of the trailheads is a 4-minute walk away.
The 3.2-mile paved trail runs along Tacony Creek, and it’s particularly scenic this time of year. The air smells sweet and floral, wildflowers are in bloom and the stream gently flows beneath the banks. In addition to the paved trail, the woodlands and meadows that make up Tacony Creek Park provide a year-round habitat for over 100 different species of birds and other wildlife.
This year’s clean-up event was a success – we were shocked at how much trash we collected along the park’s trail. Plus, we planted six new trees – including Silver Maples, Red Oaks and Tulip Poplars – which will provide even more shelter and food for the animals. Double win!
Whether it’s a park restoration event or donating to local charities like the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, the Garfield team enjoys staying involved in our community and giving back. Not only is volunteering together a great bonding activity, but it keeps us grounded and in touch with our company values – two of which are sustainability and charitable giving. We’re already looking forward to our next Earth Day event!