Both stainless steel and aluminum contain over 50% recycled content. The long life of stainless steel and aluminum planters contributes to resource minimization since new resources are not needed to replace failed products.
All metals are 100% recyclable and have value even after a very long life as a capital or consumer product. Stainless steel and aluminum is collected by scrap metal dealers all around the world and sent back to mills for use in producing new stainless steel or aluminum, thereby completing a full life cycle. The new stainless steel or aluminum that is produced is of the same quality as the original and is not downgraded or consumed, it remains part of a sustainable closed-loop system.
Stainless steel does not require any paint or coating for protection. The annealing properties of stainless steel provide a natural built-in protection. Aluminum is coated with powder based paint that does not emit harmful solvents and is baked for a durable finish. Using stainless steel and powder coated aluminum can assist to qualify for additional LEED credits.