The results were achieved despite ongoing political changes within the country. Credit: Kwangmoozaa via Shutterstock.

The UK has witnessed a 3% rise in aluminium packaging recycling volumes in the second quarter (Q2) of 2024 compared to the same period last year, according to the National Packaging Waste Database.  

This growth indicates that the industry is positioned to surpass its annual recycling targets once again. 

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The data, published by the UK’s Environment Agency, also revealed that a total of 45,246 tonnes (t) of aluminium packaging were collected for recycling during this period. 

This figure includes 29,831t from kerbside, bring, and on-the-go systems, marking a 4% year-on-year increase.  

In addition, 13,156t were recovered from incinerator bottom ash.

Alupro executive director Tom Giddings said: “Despite a year of disruptions, delays and political change, it’s positive to see that aluminium packaging recycling volumes have continued to increase. This is particularly impressive considering the growth of material tonnage placed on the market so far in 2024.”  

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To date this year, 84,222t of aluminium packaging have been collected, achieving 59% of the necessary volume to meet the year’s target of 140,431t.   

The market is not only ahead of schedule but also appears to be reporting exceptional recycling rates for the fourth consecutive year. 

Giddings added: “As usual, the only sting in the tail comes in the form of fluctuating PRN [packaging recovery note] prices, which remain excessively high and therefore have the potential to derail progress over the coming months. 

“Moving forward, EPR [extended producer responsibility] reform will prove pivotal to removing this as a common obstacle and supporting the industry’s continued progress. This, alongside wider policy progress (such as the introduction of a variable-rate deposit return scheme) will build momentum towards achieving the long-term goal of a 100% aluminium packaging recycling rate for the UK.”