New research by the consulting firm RRS confirms that used beverage cans (UBCs) in the United States are recycled and converted into new cans in less than 60 days on average.
The study, released last World Recycling Day and commissioned by the Aluminum Association and the Can Manufacturers Institute (CMI), highlights the unique circular nature of aluminum cans, which are almost always transformed into new cans when recycled.
CMI President Robert Budway noted that aluminum cans are an example of a large-scale circular economy, as approximately 97% of aluminum cans recycled in the U.S. are reused to make new cans, compared to only 30-60% for glass and 34% for plastic bottles.
In addition, the report “The Aluminum Can Advantage: Sustainability Key Performance Indicators,” published last year, revealed that 71% of the content of aluminum beverage cans in the U.S. is recycled, in contrast to only 23% for glass bottles and 3-10% for plastic bottles.
The research also highlights that the aluminum industry can recover more recycled material to meet growing demand, which would benefit both the economy and national security.
Aluminum can recycling plummets in the USA with a rate of 43%.
Recycled packaging market grew 12% in Chile
Bank of Ireland appointed as financial partner for new National Deposit Return Scheme
Aluminum cans, a key role in the circular economy
Netherlands includes cans in its return system
BALL CORPORATION AND NOVELIS INCREASE RECYCLED CONTENT OF BALL ALUMINUM CUP TO 90%.
ALUMINUM CANS, THE BEST SUPPORTERS OF THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY
GEL Recycling upgrades capture equipment to reach 3.5 million cans recycled at Florida plant
Making a can from recycled aluminum saves more than 90% of the energy needed to make a new can.
Environmental impact analysis of 5 types of packaging
