The European Aluminium web workshop on investing in better collection and sorting of used aluminium packaging for recycling stressed enough on the importance of the Circular Economy. Many speakers spoke about the need for more investment into the complete cycle of aluminium packaging, sorting and recycling for achieving better results. Also, a recent study by HTP1 performed for the Packaging Group European Aluminium demonstrated that investment in Circular Economy really pays off.
Both Andy Doran, chairman of the Packaging Group, and Michael Langen of HTP, a leading German consultancy on waste management, pointed out that by using a second Eddy Current Separator2 for the aluminium fraction in a Material Recovery Facility (MRF) or sorting station for lightweight packaging, 30% more aluminium could be sorted, up to a level of 89%. They also noted that another 4-6% aluminium containing package could be easily sorted for recycling with the installation of an additional induction sensor sorter or a robot sorter.
Two European leading companies in advanced sorting technologies, Steinert and TOMRA, also demonstrated in the workshop that these innovative sorting tools make a real difference.
Mattia Pellegrini, Head of the Waste Unit of EU Commission DG Environment mentioned that ‘’The new European Circular Economy Action Plan mandates the EU to work on an integrated approach to packaging, including the circulation of all packaging we use, keeping it in the economy and out of the environment’’.
Member of the European Parliament Maria Spyraki added: “The COVID-19 crisis makes the circular economy more relevant than ever. Raw materials are not inexhaustible. Repairability, recyclability, reusability and remanufacturing are the main opportunities in resilience!"
“We call upon local authorities and waste management companies to make the necessary investments in order to be prepared for the new European recycling targets for packaging and a separate target for used aluminium packaging. On top, we are asking for a European harmonisation of the national waste collection level, while taking into account regional differences and respecting clear sorting instructions for the citizens”, concluded Andy Doran.
Note to readers: AlCircle brings two-day event for aluminium industry players. We look forward to meeting you virtually at “Global Aluminium Expo 2020” on October 6-7, 2020. For registration, visit www.alcircleevents.com
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