It follows the Associationâs first report, launched in 2018: Good Practices on Separate Collection, Sorting and Recycling of Steel for Packaging, which was well received across Europe, and saw countries implement good practices shared by other Member States, such as introducing separate collection schemes and raising public awareness about the importance of recycling.
Alexis Van Maercke, secretary general of APEAL, said: âOur new report focuses on best practice in four key areas: optimised separate collection, collection and sorting of steel closures, scrap quality standards and design for recycling.
âIt provides updated information relevant to all organisations and stakeholders, both in the public and private sector, wishing to learn more about a real and successful material recycling story. The objective is to help stakeholders throughout the value chain work collaboratively to achieve APEALâs vision of zero steel packaging to landfill by 2025.â
With an average of 84% recycled across Europe in 2019 , steel for packaging is already the most recycled primary packaging material in Europe, bringing great savings in emissions, resource and energy use. Steelâs unique inherent qualities give a natural advantage. Magnetic properties make it easy and economical to recycle steel as there is no need for a specific sorting process. As a permanent material, steel can also be recycled forever without loss of quality.
Steel scrap is also an inherent part of the production process for new steel so every single steel plant in Europe is also a recycling plant, saving resources, energy and emissions by recycling steel in a simple and efficient process. But APEAL believes more can be done.
Mr Van Maercke added: âSteel for packaging is a resource far too valuable to be wasted if Europe is to achieve the ultimate aims of the Green Deal. This new report shows how the unique properties of steel, alongside the commitment of our industry, can bring us one step closer to achieving a more circular economy.â
To obtain a copy of the report, go to APEAL How to recycle steel – Why steel packaging recycles forever.
