Europe’s aluminium scrap exports to the US have risen by 243 per cent, highlighting a growing concern over the continent’s access to strategic raw materials as it pursues recycling, decarbonisation and industrial competitiveness. Evangelos Mytilineos, Executive Chairman of METLEN, raised the issue, linking scrap outflows to the broader challenges facing European industry, energy security and strategic autonomy. Aluminium scrap outflows raise industrial concerns Mytilineos referred to the contrasting US tariff treatment of aluminium products, i.e., a 50 per cent tariff on primary aluminium, compared with zero tariff on scrap . With European aluminium scrap exports to the US increasing by 243 per cent, he questioned whether Europe could strengthen its industrial base while allowing valuable...
The US aluminium used beverage can (UBC) scrap price benchmark tracked by Argus recorded a mixed performance over the third quarter of 2026, declining in July before rising in August and September. The monthly average increased from USD 2,322.89 per tonne in July to USD 2,491.22 per tonne in August and USD 2,602.51 per tonne in September, indicating a sustained recovery in the benchmark over the three months. July: Prices decline despite a high opening The benchmark began July at USD 2,464.98 per tonne on July 1, before falling sharply to USD 2,270.76 per tonne on July 3. The price remained at that level on July 2 and July 6, the lowest recorded price for the month. It subsequently recovered gradually, reaching USD 2,319.86 per tonne on July 10 and USD 2,328.63 per tonne on July 22....
Grow with
AL Circle
The spot prices for Aluminium ADC12 alloy ingots used in automobiles rose by INR 2,000 per tonne W-o-W, reaching INR 204,000 per tonne. This surge is primarily linked to the rise in local tense scrap prices. India's prominent automobile manufacturer, which holds significant influence in setting prices within the domestic aluminium alloy ingot market, has revealed its monthly settlement prices for aluminium alloy ingot ADC12 at INR 207,400 per tonne for March 2024. This reflects a monthly increase of INR 7,900 per tonne and signifies the highest level seen in ten months, dating back to May 2023. North Indian market In the North Indian market, a scarcity of raw materials, particularly tense scrap, has caused prices to surge to INR 172,500 per tonne ex-Delhi, excluding GST. Seizing the...
Urbaser, a global leader, has recently made an innovative investment in automated sorting technology, unveiling plans to integrate an AI-powered waste-picking robot in Algimia, Valencia, by the first half of 2024. Partnering with the UK-based technology provider Recycleye, this move aligns with Urbaser's vision of providing top-notch environmental solutions across its value chain. The innovative robot, equipped with computer vision, is set to revolutionise waste sorting, particularly in salvaging overlooked valuables at the tail end of the process, thereby preventing their descent into landfills. This strategic investment not only bolsters sustainability efforts but also promises increased revenue, reflecting Urbaser's commitment to environmental excellence. Advancements in waste sorting...
Lindal Group, a renowned global leader in designing, manufacturing, and selling specialist valves, actuators, and spray caps used in aerosol products, has joined forces with other prominent UK Aerosol Recycling Initiative members as a crucial funding partner. "Having the backing of Lindal Group will prove pivotal to achieving the UK Aerosol Recycling Initiative's three main ambitions – inspiring change, embracing a sustainable future and driving further progress towards a 50% aerosol recycling rate by 2030. We have big plans for the future and, with the support of our partners, will continue to inspire a national uplift in aluminium packaging recycling rates," said Tom Giddings, executive director of Alupro. The UK Aerosol Recycling Initiative, pioneered by Alupro and launched in 2022,...
Magnifying an initiative to combat the environmental impact of blister-pack waste, renowned pharmacy giant Boots has joined forces with waste management firm MyGroup. This collaborative effort aims to introduce a blister-pack recycling scheme at 100 Boots stores across the South East. As part of this eco-friendly venture, Boots loyalty card holders will be incentivised to participate in the recycling program. Upon depositing 15 empty packs and making a minimum purchase of £10, customers will earn 150 Advantage points. This initiative not only encourages responsible waste disposal but also rewards patrons for their commitment to sustainability. Addressing the global recycling challenge The staggering production of over 30 million tonnes of blister packs worldwide annually poses a...
Eric Donsky's startup, Atomic13, has recently entered into an exclusive partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL). This agreement is centred on commercialising the innovative Shear Assisted Processing and Extrusion Process ( ShAPE™ ) technology, which PNNL has patented. This groundbreaking technology can remarkably convert 100 per cent post-consumer scrap aluminium into top-tier extrusions of exceptional quality. With this collaboration, Atomic13 aims to spearhead the production of a diverse array of custom profiles using the 6061 and 6063 alloys. These profiles are targeted for utilisation in the building and consumer products sectors, promising a sustainable and efficient approach to aluminium extrusion. "The ShAPE technology is an...
Headquartered in Boston, VisionCycle has inaugurated an artificial intelligence (AI) unit to capture copper and aluminium scrap. The brand’s broad vision for sustainability can be aligned with the global call for Net Zero and reduction of carbon emissions, as this green drive can induce material circularity. VisionCycle claims to have achieved 99 per cent accuracy in copper and aluminium sorting operations. A computer-based vision valve, VisionCycle’s Vision Valve is responsible for shredding the scrap materials into a sortable particle form so that separation is simple. Comments from VisionCycle’s COO The chief operations officer (COO) of VisionCycle, Tim Crowley, commented: “Our approach utilises the advances in artificial intelligence to separate valuable particles such as copper and...
Nespresso, the distinguished global coffee company, has unveiled an eco-friendly innovation in the form of recyclable coffee pods made from recycled aluminium. This eco-friendly endeavour not only elevates the coffee experience but also resonates with Nespresso's commitment to environmental responsibility. Nespresso's latest development marks a pivotal moment in the coffee industry's quest for sustainability. The use of recycled aluminium underscores the company's commitment to mitigating its carbon footprint and embracing circular economy practices. This move aligns seamlessly with Nespresso's ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2022. Design excellence and high-quality standards The sleek design of the new coffee pods does not compromise Nespresso's renowned quality. The...
Aluminium scrap holds indispensable significance within manufacturing sectors worldwide, emerging as a pivotal commodity. Its allure lies not just in its economic appeal but also in its profound environmental virtues. Recycling aluminium emerges as a hero in the fight against energy depletion and environmental degradation, offering a beacon of hope in sustainability. Yet, within this realm of aluminium recycling lie various types of scrap, each endowed with distinctive properties tailored for specific applications. This article delves into the diverse categories of aluminium scrap, unravelling their attributes and suitability for various purposes. In the world of aluminium, where versatility is vital, AL Biz recognises the paramount importance of aluminium scrap to cater to the specific...
Territory Pharmacy, the largest pharmacy group in the Northern Territory, Australia, has initiated the pioneering free blister pack recycling program across the territory. This initiative is made possible through a partnership with TerraCycle ® , an innovative recycling company. Let's know about Territory Pharmacy Territory Pharmacy is a leading pharmacy group at the heart of Northern Territory healthcare and was founded alongside Northpharm in 2000. The group is owned and operated by a team of pharmacists and supported by a dedicated Territory workforce. The community pharmacies are situated in Darwin, Katherine, and Alice Springs. Territory Pharmacies deliver pharmacy, health, and wellbeing services in these regions. Northpharm Group is a reliable, experienced partner for government...
Tom Giddings, executive director of Alupro, looks to the year ahead and explains what the aluminium packaging recycling industry wants to see in 2024. Reflecting on the preceding 12 months, Giddings characterizes it as a period marked by frustration within the packaging value chain. The industry encountered setbacks such as delays in anticipated consultations, unsatisfactory governmental decisions, and fluctuating PRN (Packaging Waste Recovery Note) prices, all contributing to dissatisfaction. A sight of hope Nevertheless, amidst the challenges, there were significant achievements to celebrate. The long-awaited consultation response on Deposit Return Schemes (DRS) marked a substantial stride forward, providing clarity and direction. Additionally, establishing an official timeline for the...
Spot prices for aluminium ADC12 alloy ingot, equivalent to automotive-grade, experienced a weekly increase of INR 3,500 per tonne, reaching INR 202,000 per tonne ex-works in Delhi, excluding GST. This rise is primarily linked to the escalation in local Tense scrap prices, mainly due to shortages observed in both northern and southern regions of India, according to BigMint's analysis. Why the surge in costs? In the north Indian market, soaring prices resulted from a scarcity of vital raw materials, especially tense scrap, currently priced at INR 171,000/t exy Delhi (excluding GST). Presently, tense offers in Chennai stand at INR 165,000/t. However, bids are in the range of INR 162,000-163,000/t. Considering the ongoing scarcity in the tense scrap market, prices are likely to reach INR...
Sims Metal, an international leader in metal recycling, has invested in an electric car flattener at its Allens Avenue site, replacing the previous diesel model. The state-of-the-art equipment, weighing 60,000 pounds, is expected to cut the site's CO2 emissions by 9.6 tons annually. The initiative aligns with Sims Metal's commitment to sustainability and the State of Rhode Island's 2021 Act on Climate. Mike Kiwanis, Sims Metal's General Manager, highlighted the company's $300,000 investment in the electric car flattener. "This significant investment in new, greener technology demonstrates how we are delivering on our company purpose, promoting a world without waste to preserve our planet, and ensuring our operations have as little impact on the environment as possible," exemplified...
Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), the leading aluminium giant in the UAE, has partnered with beverage can manufacturers Crown and CANPACK to launch "Every Can Counts," an innovative campaign aimed at promoting the recycling of used aluminium drink cans. This initiative, introduced during COP28, represents a crucial step towards fostering a circular economy in the United Arab Emirates. Every Can Counts , a leading global awareness program for aluminium beverage can recycling, now extends its reach to the UAE. This initiative, following successful chapters in Brazil and the USA, seeks to inspire, encourage, and empower consumers to recycle their drink cans, particularly focusing on out-of-home consumption and collection. The program deploys educational and recreational activations at various...
Xplore! Science Discovery Centre, renowned as the epicentre of scientific exploration in North Wales, proudly unveils its latest attraction: the 'Infinity Room' installation brought to life by the philanthropic efforts of the recycling not-for-profit organisation, Every Can Counts. Designed with the dual purpose of educating and inspiring, the 'Infinity Room' is a testament to the vital importance of recycling, particularly when it comes to aluminium beverage cans. About the exhibition This ground-breaking exhibit promises an immersive experience for all who enter its domain, and what's more, it's entirely free for the public to enjoy. Its primary objective is to impart knowledge to visitors of all ages about the critical role of recycling in conserving resources, with a particular focus...
Oman recently played host to its inaugural Aluminium Recycling Forum at the JW Marriott Hotel in Muscat on February 14. Dr Abdullah bin Ali al Amri, Chairman of the Environment Authority, graced the event, marking a significant step towards sustainable practices in the country. The forum, spearheaded by Sohar Aluminium and supported by the Environment Authority, brought together influential figures from various sectors, including the aluminium industry, waste management, academia, and governmental bodies. Eng Said bin Mohammed al Masoudi, CEO of Sohar Aluminium, focused on the circular nature of aluminium, a material inherently designed for recycling. Environmental and economic benefits Aluminium scrap recycling emerged as a focal point, with discussions centring on its potential to offer...
Singaporean startup Nandina REM is redefining the adage "one man's trash is another man's treasure" by repurposing aviation-grade aluminium panels from retired commercial jets for electric vehicle (EV) battery castings. This innovative approach addresses the need for sustainable materials in the industrial supply chains, particularly the growing demand for EV components. Nandina REM is on a mission to provide sustainable materials to industrial supply chains, focusing on the unconventional method of dismantling old aircraft to obtain high-value aluminium. With over 8,000 retired aircraft worldwide, the company sees an opportunity to extract the world's most highly engineered materials, particularly in locations like Victorville, California. Proof of concept: Successful dismantling of...
To leap toward a sustainable future, edding, the renowned writing instruments manufacturer, has embraced a greener raw material by transitioning its flagship product, the edding 3000 permanent markers, to 100% post-consumer recycled (PCR) aluminium. This shift, set to commence in 2024, marks a significant milestone in edding's commitment to environmental responsibility. The stationary manufacturer's history Founded in Hamburg in 1960, edding has evolved into a global entity with a 2021 revenue of EUR 148.6 million. Their diverse product range, spanning markers, visual communication tools, digital applications, tattoo ink, and nail polish, reflects a dedication to quality and innovation. Notably, the company strategically acquired a stake in Compactor, a Brazilian writing instruments...
In the pursuit of a greener tomorrow, Tetra Pak has ignited a €40 million investment blaze to propel carton recycling in Europe. This visionary move unveils four remarkable projects, each a beacon illuminating the path toward a circular economy. Tetra Pak joins forces with Axjo Group in Sweden, orchestrating a symphony of innovation. Together, they envision a recycling line, a marvel capable of processing 10,000 tonnes of polyethylene and aluminium (polyAl). This endeavour aims to breathe new life into injection-moulded plastic products, from cable drums to storage boxes, weaving sustainability into everyday essentials. Tetra Pak's polyAl revolution – A chronology A Spanish collaboration between Tetra Pak and Trans Sabater amplifies polyAl recycling capacity from 3,000 to 10,000 tonnes...
