Can Europe secure 1Mt+ aluminium scrap for circularity goals while maintaining global competitiveness?

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Europe’s aluminium recycling industry is entering a defining phase. Demand for low-carbon aluminium is climbing rapidly across automotive, packaging, construction and clean energy sectors, while policymakers continue to champion circularity as a key pillar of climate action. Yet, despite recycling rates above 80 per cent in several segments and continued investment in recycling infrastructure, a rising share of valuable aluminium scrap is still leaving the continent.

That paradox is becoming one of the industry’s biggest focal points. Across the value chain, we notice a growing regard for Europe’s recycling success, which will be measured not only by how much scrap it collects, but by how much of that material it can keep, process and turn back into aluminium products at home.

As competition for low-carbon materials intensifies, can Europe hold on to one of its most strategic resources?

Recently, insights shared by leading industry experts reveal a sector navigating a complex mix of opportunities and challenges — from scrap leakage and regulatory uncertainty to rising energy costs, carbon policies and technological innovation — while striving to strengthen Europe's position in the global circular aluminium economy.

Delve deeper into the recycled aluminium and secondary aluminium market with our World Recycled ALuminium Market Analysis Industry forecast to 2032

Recycling success story overshadowed by scrap leakage