RECYCLING of steel packaging has hit another record high of 85.5% in Europe, according to new figures released by APEAL, the Association of European Producers of Steel for Packaging.
This represents an increase of 1.5% and is the 10th consecutive year in which the overall recycling rate has risen.
Alexis Van Maercke, secretary general of APEAL, said, “The excellent recycling rate which steel packaging continues to improve upon each year, is testament to steel’s strong environmental credentials and the work of stakeholders throughout the value chain to improve recycling processes, infrastructure, and consumer communications.”
APEAL added that it is also significant that more countries than ever have recycled over 90% of steel packaging. The organisation described this as a ‘clear signal’ that closing the loop for steel packaging is within reach.
Mr Van Maercke added, “More needs to be done, however. APEAL’s vision, zero steel packaging to landfill by 2025, remains unchanged and there are still a number of countries which have some way to go to reach the average recycling rate for steel packaging in Europe. Indeed, preventing recyclable packaging from being sent to landfill is one of six key policy recommendations in APEAL’s 2022 recycling report, published earlier this year.”
