A process for recovering copper and noble metals from organic precipitates, residues and polymerizates which involves subjecting the organic components to a slow, low-temperature carbonization process without the use of any additional heat supplying elements. The metals remain in the ash in the form of salts. Normally the metals in the resulting solution are not separated out but can be recycled directly to the process as active components. No additional components need be added. Typically, the burning process takes place with a conversion rate of approximately one percent per hour. Preferably the burning process takes place at a temperature between 300.degree. and 500.degree.C. The ash is obtained in a form in which it almost completely dissolves in suitable acids, preferably hydrochloric acid. Preferably the process is used to burn the copper and palladium chloride containing residues obtained from the process of the oxidation of ethylene to form acetaldehyde.