Alupro sets out ‘key asks’ in aluminium manifesto

Alupro has unveiled its Aluminium Manifesto, which sets out seven ‘key asks’ to achieve ‘true resource circularity’ and harness legislative opportunities.

Developed in-line with the UK environment targets, the Manifesto calls for ‘fundamental change’ in our national approach to packaging and waste management.

It states the role of rejuvenated legislation and innovative and consistent consumer engagement in driving a strong circular economy in the UK is ‘pivotal’ and says close collaboration between industry actors and the government is needed to deliver a ‘world-class recycling system’.

we anticipate more brands switching to sustainable packaging options – like aluminium. Having the systems in place to maximise recycling rates is therefore key to achieving ambitious goals

Aiming to help the UK exceed aluminium recycling targets, achieve ‘true resource circularity’ and harness legislative opportunities, the Manifesto outlines seven key asks:

1. That used aluminium packaging is consistently collected for recycling wherever possible.
2. That ambitious on-the-go recycling infrastructure is put in place to prevent the landfilling or littering of recyclable material.
3. That government and industry must collaborate to educate consumers about best practice aluminium recycling.
4. That a well-designed deposit return scheme (DRS), with variable deposit fee, is implemented to promote the high collection and recycling of beverage containers.
5. That a well-designed extended producer responsibility (EPR) system is implemented that incentivises the use, and value, of infinitely recyclable aluminium.
6. That the government must support the deployment of proven technologies to facilitate the widespread recycling of aluminium packaging.
7. That recyclable products recovered from incinerator bottom ash (IBA) are accounted for in recycling rates.

Tom Giddings, Executive Director of Alupro, commented: “Aluminium is infinitely recyclable and therefore plays a central role in the circular economy of tomorrow. Indeed, nearly 75% of all aluminium ever produced worldwide is still in use today – a remarkable statistic.

“With the UK Government having set a target of eliminating all avoidable plastic waste by 2042, and aiming to work towards use of only recyclable, reusable or compostable plastic packaging by 2025, the industry needs to embrace significant change.

“As a result, we anticipate more brands switching to sustainable packaging options – like aluminium. Having the systems in place to maximise recycling rates is therefore key to achieving ambitious goals.

“Alupro’s Aluminium Manifesto outlines the views of the aluminium packaging industry and details the changes needed to realise a more sustainable future for our waste. It’s our stake in the ground to tackle challenges, harness opportunities and embrace change to deliver a world-class national recycling system.”