According to an analysis by Every Can Counts based on RetuRo data, Romania has made impressive strides in recycling aluminium cans. In July, the return rate hit 78 per cent and the year-to-date recycling rate has consistently stayed above 70 per cent, which is more than double the 35 per cent rate that was reported in official EU statistics just two years ago. The region is leading the way in can returns include București, Timiș, Constanța, Cluj and Ilfov.
Romania is making impressive strides in aluminium can recycling, thanks to the introduction of the Deposit Return Scheme (SGR), increased investment from the private sector in collection and recycling facilities and a growing consumer appetite for sustainable practices.
On top of these structural shifts, initiatives like Every Can Counts' "I CAN" art tour are weaving recycling into the fabric of cultural and social life, transforming it from a technical task into a visible, everyday habit that holds real meaning.
A recent study by Reveal Sustainability & SGR shows that 21 per cent of Romanians would be more inclined to recycle if there were more educational and awareness campaigns in place. These findings underscore the importance of combining infrastructure improvements with ongoing communication efforts to foster lasting changes in recycling habits.
Focus: Aluminium cans
Recent findings show that areas actively engaging in sustainability efforts are also leading the way in aluminium can recycling. Cities like Bucharest, Timiș, Cluj, Ilfov and Constanța are at the forefront of aluminium can returns, highlighting how increased visibility and cultural significance can turn awareness into real, impactful action.
Aluminium cans really shine as one of the most eco-friendly packaging options out there and they hold the title of the most recycled beverage container in the world. What's great about aluminium is that it keeps its quality no matter how many times it's recycled.
Also read: Every Can Counts raises funds by recycling aluminium cans to aid burn-injured children
In fact, recycling one aluminium can save up to 95 per cent of the energy that would be used in making a new one from scratch, and it can hit the shelves again as fresh packaging in as little as 60 days. This makes aluminium a key player in the circular economy and a top choice for both producers and consumers who care about sustainability.
Unlocking the true potential of aluminium recycling hinges on two key elements: first, a solid infrastructure and second, a cultural mindset that embraces the principles of a circular economy. Initiatives like Every Can Counts' I CAN installation, along with its extensive outreach across 21 countries, turn recycling from a mere idea into an authentic, inspiring and shareable experience.
In Romania, the I CAN tour has been created to weave recycling into everyday life through art and community involvement. By highlighting the importance of aluminium cans in a way that's both visible and relatable, this initiative deepens the public's connection to sustainable practices.
More about Every Can Counts' I CAN
Every Can Counts is an international initiative aimed at raising awareness about aluminium can recycling and it's making waves in Romania with a nationwide tour featuring its iconic "I CAN" installations. These unique artworks, crafted by Romanian artist Sergiu Chihaia from nothing but drink cans, turn sustainability into an engaging visual journey. They inspire people of all ages to appreciate the worth of every can, encouraging them to see it as a symbol of endless possibilities.
From October until the end of the year, the I CAN installations will spread beyond Bucharest to cities like Cluj, Timișoara, Brașov and other key locations in Romania, helping to spark a national conversation about sustainability. Each installation carries an uplifting message—I CAN DREAM, I CAN LOVE, I CAN GROW, I CAN CONTINUE, I CAN FLY, I CAN IMAGINE, highlighting the endless recyclability of aluminium.
By showcasing these installations at family-friendly events, museums, festivals and public spaces, Every Can Counts is upholding aluminium sustainability, visible, accessible and relevant to a wide range of audiences.
Other recent initiatives by Every Can Counts
Every Can Counts managed to collect over 25,000 aluminium drink cans during the Download Festival at Donington Park from June 10 to 14, 2025. Festivalgoers were encouraged to recycle responsibly and steer clear of single-use plastics. This message was amplified throughout the weekend with fun outreach activities, including motorised soapboxes and the lively #MetalRecyclesForever campaign.
Over 1,700 attendees, lovingly dubbed "Downloaders," got involved with the program's sustainability message. They took part in a fun recycling quiz that rewarded passionate recyclers with cool branded t-shirts, recycled aluminium keyrings and even temporary tattoos, earning them the proud title of this year's "recycling legends." Canzee, our cheerful recycling mascot, brought an extra layer of fun, while the designated DOWNLOAD can cages overflowed with collected cans, showcasing the community's united effort towards sustainability.
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