From:Packaging News

The average European aluminium closures recycling rate is now 45%, according to the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA).

EAFA said this was a result of improved collection and recycling in various European countries. Aluminium recycling saves up to 95% energy use compared to its primary production, with the corresponding savings in greenhouse gas emissions. It can be recycled over and over without any loss of quality.

Depending on the instructions to the consumers and the collection and sorting infrastructure in place, recycling rates for closures vary and range from over 85% in Germany to 65% in Italy and 45% in the UK

The UK, however, is lagging behind its European neighbours, with a recycling rate for closures at 45%, compared to 85% in Germany and 65% in Italy.

“Aluminium closures are probably the world’s most recycled closures in the wine and spirits sector,” said EAFA‘s executive director Stefan Glimm. “Particularly, European consumers are increasingly aware of the sustainability and convenience benefits of aluminium closures. Nevertheless, the industry will continue supporting national initiatives to enhance the collection and recycling.”

The recycling rates are calculated on the basis of publicly available national aluminium recycling rates and consumption data from market research companies.

This data also shows the consi­derable extent to which consumption volumes and recycling rates vary from one country to another.