Tom Giddings, executive director of Alupro, looks to the year ahead and explains what the aluminium packaging recycling industry wants to see in 2024. Reflecting on the preceding 12 months, Giddings characterizes it as a period marked by frustration within the packaging value chain. The industry encountered setbacks such as delays in anticipated consultations, unsatisfactory governmental decisions, and fluctuating PRN (Packaging Waste Recovery Note) prices, all contributing to dissatisfaction.
A sight of hope
Nevertheless, amidst the challenges, there were significant achievements to celebrate. The long-awaited consultation response on Deposit Return Schemes (DRS) marked a substantial stride forward, providing clarity and direction. Additionally, establishing an official timeline for the mandatory recycling of kerbside and commercial food waste demonstrated a firm commitment to addressing a pressing environmental concern.
Furthermore, although the goal of consistency in collections legislation may have been deferred due to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's net-zero agenda, the introduction of Simpler Recycling presents a promising advancement. This initiative represents a crucial step towards standardising material scopes for kerbside recycling collections, bolstering recycling rates in England.
For those working towards achieving a more circular economy, it's essential to see 2024 as a year of progress, decision-making and action – an opportunity to build momentum and drive positive, proactive change. From an aluminium perspective, this can be condensed down into three key asks:
- A record year for aluminium packaging recycling rates
The momentum behind aluminium packaging recycling in the UK remains robust, propelled by sustained investment in awareness and education initiatives. These efforts drive significant behavioural shifts among households, who increasingly recognise the environmental and economic benefits of responsible recycling practices.
The most recent Producer Responsibility Obligation (PRO) data underscores this remarkable progress. For instance, by September 2023, the industry had already fulfilled 92 per cent of its annual obligation, marking a notable increase from 116,439 tonnes to 137,275 tonnes compared to the same period in 2022. This surge in the aluminium collection, spanning kerbside, bring, on-the-go, and incinerator bottom ash (IBA) channels, reflects a collective commitment to resource sustainability.
Contrary to sceptics' suggestions that heightened recycling rates during the COVID-19 pandemic were fleeting, the sustained high volumes and positive consumer recycling behaviours offer reassurance. Looking ahead to 2024, our ambition is to elevate the collection and recycling rates of aluminium packaging even further. Embracing aluminium's pivotal role within a circular packaging economy, we are firmly dedicated to setting industry standards. With the caveat that PRN prices remain conducive, there is every reason to anticipate continued growth in aluminium recycling, affirming our unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation.
- Real progress when it comes to future legislation
As policy advances rapidly, the upcoming year presents a significant window of opportunity. The main focus lies on advancing key initiatives, notably appointing a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) administrator and finalising the scheme's operational details. Progressing toward consensus on pivotal decisions ensures the scheme's optimal long-term effectiveness.
Moreover, Alupro applauded the establishment of an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) steering group and commended the selection of Margaret Bates as the interim Head of the UK Extended Producer Responsibility for Packaging Scheme Administrator. With these developments in place, it's imperative to accelerate momentum and foster inclusive engagement across the entire supply chain to ensure equitable and robust proposals. Let's seize this moment to drive initiatives that uphold fairness and sustainability while leveraging the collective wisdom of industry stakeholders.
- Clear, consistent, creative communication
Effective and consistent communication takes on heightened significance as we edge closer to a promising new era for the recycling industry. We take pride in the ongoing success of our aluminium packaging recycling initiatives, namely MetalMatters and Every Can Counts, and remain steadfast in our commitment to driving awareness and education.
Throughout 2023, Alupro's programs yielded widespread benefits, pivotal in enhancing consumer engagement nationwide. The outcomes underscored the tangible impact of communication efforts in fostering best-practice recycling behaviours among consumers.
In 2024, the resolve to lead by example remains unwavering. However, the imperative to amplify consumer education extends beyond our organisation; it's a shared responsibility across the broader packaging value chain. With impending legislation and anticipated industry shifts, clear, consistent, and innovative communication must remain the top priority.
While 2023 may have posed challenges, the forthcoming year presents an opportune moment for progress, decisive action, and forward momentum. As per Tom Giddings, the paramount objectives are striving for even higher recycling rates, galvanizing momentum for forthcoming legislation, and ensuring transparent communication practices prevail. Through collective effort and dedication, we can navigate toward a more sustainable future for recycling and beyond.
