Global copper supply challenges spark sustainable solutions from igus

With surplus cable lengths ranging from 1 to 50 metres, this scheme not only helps customers save money but also supports a circular economy by repurposing residual stock that would otherwise go unused.

“Every metre of cable we can reuse is a win for both the environment and our customers,” says Daisy Durrant, cable product manager at igus in Northampton. “By offering surplus stock at half price, we’re cutting down on waste, lowering emissions, and helping businesses access essential components during a time of global material shortages.”

The timing of this initiative couldn’t be more critical. In September 2025, a catastrophic mudslide at the Grasberg mine in Indonesia forced a halt in operations. As the world’s second-largest copper mine, this has removed an estimated 591,000 tonnes of copper from the global supply chain through 2026, a disruption which, combined with other incidents across Chile, Peru, and the Congo, has pushed copper prices to 15-month highs and created a significant supply deficit.

With copper being a core material in cable manufacturing, these shortages are expected to impact availability and pricing across industries. igus UK’s surplus stock scheme offers a practical workaround, providing immediate access to ready-to-ship cables without the delays or costs associated with new production.

Sustainability at its core

igus has long been a pioneer in sustainable engineering. From recycling over 95% of copper in used cables to eco-friendly packaging and localised supply chains, the company is committed to reducing its environmental footprint. The surplus cable initiative complements these efforts by extending the lifecycle of existing products and reducing the need for new raw materials.

Customers can browse available surplus lengths directly on their online shop and benefit from a four-year guarantee on all discounted cables, if configured online.