Aluminum container recycling soars in third quarter

According to third quarter data, there has been a surprising increase in the recycling of aluminum containers. According to recent reports from the Environment Agency, recycling volumes of packaging made of aluminum experienced a significant increase during the third quarter compared to the same period last year, according to data published in the National Packaging Waste Database.

During a three-month period, from July to September, 48,135 tons of aluminum containers were collected for recycling, representing an increase of 21% compared to the same period of the previous year. Of this amount, 33,051 tons were recycled by consumers through curbside collection and use systems (an increase of 15% compared to the previous year), while 12,950 tons were recovered from ashes resulting from incineration (IBA), an increase of 19% compared to the third quarter of the previous year.

By 2023, a total of 137,275 tons of packaging made of aluminum has been collected across the United Kingdom. This figure represents an increase of 17% compared to the same period of the previous year, when 116,439 tons were registered. Currently, 92% of the established annual goal (147,925 tons) has already been met, which indicates that positive progress is being made towards surpassing the established objectives.

According to Tom Giddings, who is managing director of Alupro, it has been encouraging to see how the amount of aluminum containers collected for recycling across the UK continues to rise steadily. Although some industry critics had suggested that the high levels reported during the COVID-19 pandemic were only a temporary trend, it is reassuring to see that impressive volumes and good recycling habits on the part of consumers have remained consistent.

It is positive to see that PRN prices have finally started to stabilize, after several constant changes, delays in data submissions and other unnecessary complications. Going forward, it is important to continue working to ensure that the price of PRN does not negatively affect the flow of materials, as has been the case in recent years. As with the industry as a whole, we are looking forward to a quiet and peaceful 2024 in terms of PRN.

Although there is an increase in the collection of volumes, it is important not to be complacent. Therefore, organizations such as Alupro must continue to promote consumer education. Thanks to programs like Every Can Counts and MetalMatters, we will continue to remind households about the importance of practicing proper recycling. Our goal is to achieve a 100% recycling rate for aluminum containers and we will continue to work towards this goal.