THE AMOUNT OF RECYCLED ALUMINIUM PACKAGING INCREASES BY 5% IN THE UNITED KINGDOM

According to data published by the Environment Agency in the UK in August, 42,243 tonnes of aluminium containers were collected for recycling in the second quarter of 2021, an increase of almost 5% compared to the same period in 2020.

These optimistic figures show that the UK is on track to once again exceed its collection target and achieve a record recycling rate of 66%. In fact, according to data from the Environment Agency, 67% of the annual target has already been reached.

Tom Giddings, general manager of the Alupro association, says: “In 2020, the UK achieved its highest recycling rate for aluminium packaging at 68%, including an impressive 82% for aluminium beverage cans. With numerous national blockades, remote working and reduced commuting, household consumption increased significantly. This caused curbside collection rates to skyrocket.”

Another positive balance is that, so far this year, a total of 84,090 tons have been collected which is an increase of more than 7,000 tons compared to January-June 2020. They also point out from this British association that “these impressive figures can be attributed to increased public awareness of the benefits of aluminum recycling and positive action to improve resource efficiency”.

Finally they add that “while it is difficult to predict trends for the rest of the year, we are optimistic that harvest tonnages will continue to be positive. As such, it is important that we celebrate these successes, while maintaining focus on our goal of achieving close to 100% aluminium recycling across the UK”.