As the push for greener living gathers pace across Northern Ireland, metal recycling has emerged as a key part of the region’s shift towards more sustainable waste practices, and one Belfast-based business is making it easier than ever to recycle responsibly and profitably.
McKinstry Metal Recycling, a family-run firm operating from a purpose-built facility in Mallusk, is fast becoming a household name in the world of scrap metal recovery. Since launching in 2018, the company has grown into one of Belfast’s most respected metal processors, serving domestic, commercial and industrial clients across Northern Ireland and into the Republic.
“We’re seeing more people than ever, from homeowners to major contractors, asking how they can make better use of their waste streams,” says a spokesperson for McKinstry. “Metal is one of the most valuable and recyclable materials available, and our job is to make the process as efficient, transparent, and rewarding as possible.”Why Metal Recycling Is So Important
Beyond the immediate financial value, the benefits of recycling metal are wide-reaching. Environmentally, it dramatically reduces the need for raw material extraction, cuts down on emissions, and saves significant energy, up to 95% in comparison to producing metals from ore.
Recycling also supports a robust circular economy, keeping valuable resources in use and creating jobs in the process. It’s an approach that aligns with McKinstry’s long-standing mission: to reduce environmental impact while maximising return for those who recycle.
What Can Be Recycled — And How
At their site in Mallusk, McKinstry Metal Recycling handles a full spectrum of both ferrous and non-ferrous materials. This includes everything from copper and aluminium to car shells, farm machinery, and household appliances.
Ferrous metals, such as steel and iron, are typically magnetic and commonly sourced from vehicles, white goods, and industrial offcuts.
Non-ferrous metals — including brass, copper, lead and stainless steel, are generally non-magnetic and often command higher market values. The team also processes electric motors, batteries, and catalytic converters.
Materials are carefully sorted, weighed using calibrated equipment, and priced based on current market conditions. Customers, whether private individuals or corporate clients, can expect honest valuations and swift, secure payments.
A Simple, Transparent Process
McKinstry has worked hard to remove the usual complexities from metal recycling. Their five-step approach ensures ease from first contact to final payment:
Get in Touch – Customers can call, visit, or submit an enquiry online. The team provides advice on accepted materials, documentation, and logistics.
Drop-Off or Collection – Scrap can be delivered to the Mallusk site or collected directly, with flexible options for businesses and trade clients.
On-Site Inspection – Materials are inspected, graded, and weighed on arrival.
Swift Payment – Payment is issued promptly, with all required documentation provided.
Ongoing Support – Trade customers benefit from tailored account management, scheduled collections, and volume-based pricing.
Scrap My Car in NI? McKinstry Has the Answer
For those looking to dispose of a vehicle, McKinstry Metal Recycling operates as a fully licensed Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF). They specialise in the professional recycling of end-of-life vehicles (ELVs), handling collection, depollution, DVLA paperwork, and the issue of a Certificate of Destruction — all under strict environmental regulation.
Whether your vehicle is damaged, no longer roadworthy, or simply surplus to requirements, the McKinstry team provides a straightforward, legally compliant solution that removes both the physical and administrative burden.
“Vehicle scrappage is one of our most in-demand services,” says the McKinstry spokesperson. “We’ve invested heavily in infrastructure to ensure that every step of the process is handled efficiently, safely, and in line with environmental best practice.”Why McKinstry Is Belfast’s Go-To for Scrap Metal
There are plenty of reasons customers choose McKinstry Metal Recycling:
Reputation – A trusted name within the wider McKinstry Group, which has over four decades of operational excellence in Northern Ireland.
Expertise – Since launching in 2018, the metal recycling arm has built a strong track record across a wide range of recycling projects.
Customer Service – A dedicated team that values honesty, transparency, and long-term relationships.
Competitive Rates – Strong industry partnerships allow McKinstry to offer some of the best scrap prices in Belfast.
Environmental Commitment – Full statutory compliance and an unwavering focus on sustainability.
Flexible Services – From small-scale clear-outs to large commercial contracts, every job is handled with the same professionalism.
Recycling Done Right — The McKinstry Way
As Northern Ireland continues to embrace more sustainable ways of living, McKinstry Metal Recycling is proud to play its part — helping individuals, businesses and local authorities turn waste into value while protecting the environment for future generations.
Whether you need to scrap a car, dispose of metal waste, or establish an ongoing recycling partnership, McKinstry offers a reliable, expert-led service you can count on.