Q2 2024: UK's aluminium packaging recycling rate continues upward trend with 3% growth

The UK's aluminium packaging recycling rate has once again shown significant gains in the second quarter (Q2) of 2024. As per the NPWD data, UK witnessed a 3 per cent increase in recycling volumes compared to the same period last year.

Data from NPWD

As per the data published by the National Packaging Waste Database (NPWD), a total of 45,246 tonnes of aluminium packaging were collected for recycling during Q2 2024. This includes 29,831 tonnes from kerbside, bring, and on-the-go systems, reflecting a 4 per cent year-on-year rise. Additionally, 13,156 tonnes were recovered from incinerator bottom ash.

So far this year, 84,222 tonnes of aluminium packaging have been collected, reaching 59 per cent of the annual target of 140,431 tonnes. The market is not only ahead of schedule but also on track to achieve exceptional recycling rates for the fourth consecutive year.

Alupro executive director Tom Giddings said, "Despite a year of disruptions, delays and political change, it's positive to see that aluminium packaging recycling volumes have continued to increase. This is particularly impressive considering the growth of material tonnage placed on the market so far in 2024. If we continue at this pace, there’s no reason why the industry can’t surpass targets and once again achieve record rates. This success reflects national behavioural change and consumer proactivity when it comes to aluminium packaging recycling, driven in the main by creative initiatives and incentives from across the supply chain."

Last year analysis

In 2023, the aluminium packaging recycling rate in the United Kingdom reached an impressive 68 per cent, as reported by the National Packaging Waste Database from the Environment Agency. This milestone marked a record-breaking year, with 162,357 tonnes of aluminium recycled across the country, including 81 per cent of beverage cans.

Despite a rapidly expanding domestic market, the amount of aluminium packaging collected through kerbside, bring, and on-the-go systems saw a 13 per cent year-on-year increase, with 115,382 tonnes collected in 2023, up from 102,195 tonnes in 2022. Additionally, the recovery of aluminium from incinerator bottom ash (IBA) grew by 17 per cent, rising to 45,632 tonnes from 38,982 tonnes the previous year.

“As usual, the only sting in the tail comes in the form of fluctuating PRN prices, which remain excessively high and therefore have the potential to derail progress over the coming months. Moving forward, EPR reform will prove pivotal to removing this as a common obstacle and supporting the industry’s continued progress. This, alongside wider policy progress (such as the introduction of a variable rate deposit return scheme) will build momentum towards achieving the long-term goal of a 100% aluminium packaging recycling rate for the UK.

In the meantime, it’s essential that consumers continue to follow best practice recycling guidance, and that educational initiatives, such as our MetalMatters and Every Can Counts programmes, continue to expand in order to inspire positive national recycling behaviours," added Tom.

The aluminium packaging sector is expected to continue its growth trajectory in 2024, benefiting from several tailwinds like a conscious choice for sustainable packaging options, rising disposable incomes, and urbanisation. Technological advancement is also a factor we must consider. New-age technologies used for aluminium packaging make the end result even more attractive. For example, new methods of coating aluminium make the packaging more resistant to corrosion and scratching, while new printing technologies give an enticing look to it.