The UK achieved an impressive recycling rate of 157,049 tonnes of aluminium packaging in 2024, as reported in the annual data published by the National Packaging Waste Database by the Environment Agency.
The recycling rate of the UK in 2024 surpassed the kept up pace, indicating a higher capture rate amidst the rapidly growing domestic market. With the support of the kerbside, on-the-go systems and bring have aided in recycling 114,462 tonnes of aluminium packaging.
On the other hand, 41,635 tonnes of aluminium packaging is recycled via incinerator bottom ash (IBA). The remaining 952 tonnes were recycled from different sources. The UK has yet again surpassed the obligation target of 151,281 tonnes, with a carry-in worth 2,811 tonnes and a surplus of packaging recovery notes (PRNs) for 8,579 tonnes.
Executive Director of Alupro, Tom Giddings, stated, "I'm delighted to report another excellent year for aluminium packaging recycling. While the recycling rate for beverage cans maintained an impressive 81 per cent, the number of PRNs issued for all aluminium packaging was also one of the highest ever recorded. For the past 20 years, we've been investing heavily in optimising our collection and recycling infrastructure. A consistently high recycling rate demonstrates that we're reaping the rewards of this long-term commitment."
Giddings further shares his thoughts about the firm's plan towards recycling in 2025. According to him, implementing a robust policy is the correct key to the lock to deliver continued recycling progress. Apart from this, rolling out the national Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) and formalised Extended Producer Responsibility (EPS) legislation shall achieve appalling recycling rates in 2025.
Additionally, the development of comprehensive reform concerning the PRN system should be considered vital while setting a new target for the aluminium packaging recycling drive in 2025. Implementing this shall ensure improved and best practices are followed for effective waste management behaviours in the UK, uplifting the continued recycling rate.
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