Alupro seeks recycle aluminium market development details after PRN price hikes

Alupro, aluminium recycling trade body, has reportedly asked for 2019 recycle aluminium market development assessments in lights of high PRN prices from the Packaging Recovery Note (PRN) system, even though the targets of the year were being met. 

According to the data, which is, however, to be finalised in March, around 33,000 tonnes of aluminium were recycled in the fourth quarter of FY20, exceeding the yearly target by 3,000 tonnes to 116,000 tonnes. 

But Alupro explained that even though the target is met, the quarterly data from the Environment Agency in 2019 suggests a significant volume of PRNs being raised out but not issued. 

“This resulted in inflated PRN prices, peaking at over £500 per tonne and undermining the credibility of aluminium as a material with enviable recycling credentials,” said Alupro’s executive director Rick Hindley.

He added, “It is excellent news that the target has been exceeded and the sustained growth of aluminium packaging recycling continues,” but went on to question developments in the market last year.

The abnormally high PRN price has significantly impacted producers and once again brings into question the system itself…. We are eager to see what additional investment to support further increases in aluminium packaging recycling and collection will result from the hugely increased revenues received by some aluminium recyclers and exporters last year,” Hindley continued to say.