Circularity and DRS gain global support, according to Every Can Counts, although only 17% identify aluminum as the most recyclable packaging

An international study commissioned by Every Can Counts, conducted in 16 countries with more than 16,000 participants, reveals that circularity has taken hold in public awareness, and that deposit return schemes (DRS) are the preferred route for consumers to make it a reality.

58% of Americans surveyed support these systems, while global support reaches 71%. Confidence is high: 88% believe that packaging returned through DRS is effectively recycled. In the United States, aluminum deposit cans have a recycling rate of 75%, compared to 37% for those without a deposit. Globally, many DRS systems consistently exceed 90% recycling.

Scott Breen, president of the Can Manufacturers Institute and leader of Every Can Counts in the U.S., notes: “Deposit return systems are an effective and sensible method to incentivize Americans to recycle aluminum cans. The data shows their effectiveness and popularity. We hope that more legislators will recognize their value and implement these programs.”

The study also highlights that 50 % of consumers associate circularity with the repeated recycling of a product in the same format, and only 43 % with reuse.In addition ,s, 57 % define recyclable packaging as “designed for circularity”, which demonstrates that the concept resonates with consumers.

The report shows intergenerational support: 80 % of Baby Boomers support DRS, compared to 59 % of Generation Z, who require more information and engagement to fully participate. Awareness of the recyclability of aluminum is still low: only 17 % identify it as the most recyclable packaging, despite aluminum cans having a global recycling rate of 71%, compared to 34% for glass and 40% for PET, and 33% closed-loop recycling (can to can). In the U.S., this rate reaches 97%.

Alexandra Williams, president of Every Can Counts, points out that the expansion of DRS will improve the quality of recycling, keep valuable material in circulation, and reduce the number of cans that end up in landfills. In addition, the survey shows that experience influences behavior: 71% of participants say they would recycle more if the process were fun or interactive.

David Van Heuverswyn, global director of Every Can Counts, concludes: “DRS is the beginning, not the end. We are working in 21 countries to educate consumers about the extraordinary sustainability potential of the aluminum can and its central role in the circular economy.”