Ball debuts first-ever recyclable aluminium cup to end plastic waste

Ball Corporation launched a pilot of infinitely recyclable aluminium cups in the U.S. to curb plastic waste. Ball developed the cup over the past several years for use at home and in other areas where plastic cups are common.

John A. Hayes, chairman, president and chief executive officer said: "As our customers and consumers increasingly seek sustainable beverage packaging options, the launch of the aluminium cup is a significant moment for our company. It is our responsibility as the leader in aluminium beverage packaging to continuously innovate and provide solutions for our customers. We're excited to bring the aluminium cup to market and expand the product line next year and beyond."

In September 2019, Ball will roll out several pilots with major venues across the U.S. to replace their plastic cups with aluminium cups.  The pilot will manufacture a limited supply of aluminium cups through 2020.

The aluminium cup is available in a 20-ounce size. Ball plans to launch additional sizes in the future based on market demand. The company expects to ramp up production in its Westminster, Colorado, innovation facility by the end of 2020.

“Ball's research shows that 67 percent of U.S. consumers say they will visit a venue more often if they use aluminium cups instead of plastic cups and that 78 percent of consumers expect beverage brands to use environmentally friendly containers in the next five years,” Ball said through its press release.

Ball aims to expand adoption of the cups to restaurants, bars, convenience stores, breweries, and retail locations.