PRN hindering domestic aluminum recycling, says Alupro

CANTERBURY (Scrap Monster): The UK-based Aluminium Packaging Recycling Organization (Alupro) has stated that the Packaging Recovery Note (PRN) system continues to hinder the progress of aluminium recycling in the region. In a statement released, the trade body called for revamping the system that is used to determine the recycling rate in the UK.

According to Rick Hindley, Executive Director, Alupro, the tonnage of aluminium packaging recovered from incinerator bottom ash as reported by PRN is considerably less when matched with the domestically recycled or exported quantities. Also, the Q1 2015 data released by the Environment Agency (EA) shows that recycling rate for aluminum packaging during the quarter is well below than those required to achieve the 2015 yearly targets.

The removal of aluminum scraps protocols and the introduction of IBA’s new protocol for recovery of aluminum packaging has impacted the recycling data. Alupro indicates that many qualifying aluminium packaging recovery have not been reported. In addition, many companies have not yet applied for accreditation. Also, companies awaiting approval from EA authorities also have not issued PRNs on the material. The complexity of the new accreditation process has prompted many exporters and re-processors not to re-apply.

The organization had earlier made several suggestions to streamline the accreditation process in order to ensure that all aluminum packaging recycled is reported through the system. The proposed changes by the organization would bring significant benefits to aluminum, on account of huge gap between PRN price and traded price of used aluminum packaging.

Alupro represents the leading aluminium packaging producers and reprocessors in the UK. Its membership comprises the full spectrum of the aluminium packaging ‘loop’ – from primary producer to packaging converter, from packer filler to reprocessor/exporter.