UK’s aluminium packaging recycling rate hits a record-breaking Y-o-Y growth of 13%

The aluminium packaging recycling rate in the United Kingdom (UK) hit an impressive 68 per cent in 2023, according to the National Packaging Waste Database published by the Environment Agency. This record-breaking effort saw 162,357 tonnes recycled nationwide, including more than four in five beverage cans (81 per cent).

Despite the rapidly growing domestic market, the amount of aluminium packaging collected through kerbside, bring, and on-the-go systems increased by 13 per cent year-on-year, with 115,382 tonnes collected in 2023 compared to 102,195 tonnes in 2022. Additionally, the cargo recovered from incinerator bottom ash (IBA) rose by 17 per cent, reaching 45,632 tonnes, up from 38,982 tonnes the previous year.

As per AL Circle’s new industry-focus report - “Global ALuminium Industry Outlook 2024”, the aluminium packaging sector is expected to continue its growth trajectory in 2024, benefitted from a number of tailwinds like a conscious choice for sustainable packaging options, rising disposable incomes, and urbanisation. But perhaps the most exciting factor is technological advancement. New-age technologies used for aluminium packaging make the end result even more attractive and pave the way for a more sustainable and efficient future.

What they said

Tom Giddings, executive director of Alupro, said, “I’m delighted to announce record-breaking recycling volumes for 2023. While more aluminium packaging was placed on the domestic market than last year, it’s pleasing to see that recycling rates have more than kept up with pace. As an industry, we’ve been investing heavily in optimising our collection and recycling infrastructure for the past 20 years and we’re now reaping the rewards of this long-term commitment. Despite ongoing delays and uncertainty surrounding proposed changes to national recycling legislation, the sector is continuing to deliver over and above annual targets.”

Aluminium is rapidly emerging as the preferred material for numerous brands, driving growth in the domestic market. Renowned for its extensive benefits in packaging applications, aluminium also stands out for its sustainability. The presence of strong national recycling systems enhances its appeal, allowing used packaging to be endlessly recycled, creating an ideal circular economy.

“Such an impressive recycling rate reflects ever-increasing public awareness about environmental issues and the widespread benefits of recycling. Over the past 12 months, Every Can Counts and MetalMatters have continued to engage with consumers across the UK and Ireland to inspire further progress when it comes to improving recycling rates at home and on the go. As we continue into 2024, we remain optimistic that the impact of these initiatives will help to further improve best practice recycling behaviours and drive collection figures even higher,” said Chris Latham-Warde of Every Can Counts.