UK aluminium packaging recycling shows further growth in Q3

According to recent data published on the National Packaging Waste Database by the Environment Agency, aluminium packaging recycling volumes continued to rise in Q3 2024, increasing 15% compared to the same period in 2023.

In total, 43,466 tonnes of aluminium packaging were collected for recycling. This included 32,294 tonnes through kerbside, bring and on-the-go systems (+15% YOY), as well as 10,910 tonnes recovered from incinerator bottom ash (IBA).

So far in 2024, 119,792 tonnes of aluminium packaging have been collected for recycling in the UK, more than 81% of the volume needed to meet this year’s annual target (147,080). As a result, the sector looks firmly on track to surpass expectations and deliver record-breaking results.

Tom Giddings, executive director of Alupro, commented: “Thanks to widespread pressure to prioritise the use of recyclable materials, the aluminium packaging sector is experiencing impressive growth. With more and more material being placed on the market, it’s positive to see that recycling is not just keeping pace, but accelerating fast.

“With PRN prices stable, we’re anticipating a strong finish to the year. Indeed, with the festive period bringing with it an increase in grocery spending and more recyclable material appearing in domestic waste streams (including mince pie cases, beverage cans, foil wrappers, trays, tubes and screw caps), there’s no reason that we shouldn’t once again reach impressively high rates.

“However, we mustn’t rest on our laurels when it comes to upward trending collection volumes. It’s of vital importance that organisations such as Alupro continue to bang the drum when it comes to consumer education. Through our awareness programmes, Every Can Counts and MetalMatters, we will continue to play a driving role in reminding households about the value of best practice recycling, while working towards our ambitious goal of a 100% recycling rate for aluminium packaging.”

For more information about Q3 recycling volumes, visit https://npwd.environment-agency.gov.uk. To find out more about Alupro, or the organisation’s consumer education initiatives, visit www.alupro.org.uk.