Taxonomy of Scrappers and Metal Thieves

Abstract

Scrappers and metal thieves have received little study. Consequently, little is known about what a scrapper is, how they operate, or even what the definition of scrapping is. This chapter defines scrapping as “the act of regularly collecting fragmented, damaged, or discarded metal items, which are no longer useful or have not maintained their original value, to recycle them for financial profit.” Next, four distinct taxonomies (or categories) of scrappers are established: Subsistence Scrappers, Scrapping Professionals, Professionals who Scrap, and Philanthropic Scrappers. Each taxonomy identifies broad characteristics, motivations, experiences, and relationships with other scrappers. Finally, an entirely separate category, metal thieves, is identified and described. This chapter distinguishes the differences between scrappers and metal thieves and discusses the four taxonomies of scrappers.