Steel for Packaging Europe, formerly known as APEAL, has announced a groundbreaking achievement in the recycling of steel packaging across Europe. The organization has confirmed that in 2022, a record 80.5% of steel packaging placed on the market was "really recycled," marking a significant milestone in the industry's sustainability efforts. This announcement comes on the heels of the organization's December 2023 report, which revealed that steel packaging had already met its EU recycling rate target for 2025, an impressive four years ahead of schedule.
The newly reported recycling rate represents a 2% increase from the 2021 figures, further solidifying steel packaging's position as the most widely recycled sales packaging material in Europe. This achievement is attributed to the unique properties of steel and the collaborative efforts of stakeholders throughout the value chain, all working towards the goal of achieving a 100% closed material loop.
Steve Claus, Secretary General of Steel for Packaging Europe, emphasized the significance of these figures, stating, "Steel packaging's ever-increasing recycling rates reflect the industry's commitment to transparency and demonstrate why steel packaging is so well aligned with the EU's vision for a circular economy." Claus also highlighted the importance of the new harmonized method for calculating packaging recycling rates, which creates a level playing field for all packaging materials in Europe. This method ensures that the reported figures correspond to the amount of packaging actually recycled at the entrance of recycling operations, rather than merely collected materials.
The announcement of this recycling milestone coincides with the formal adoption of the Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation by the European Parliament. This new regulation introduces stricter recyclability measures, including the establishment of design for recycling criteria applicable to all packaging and the introduction of a performance grading system with clear criteria. Under this system, packaging materials will be graded A, B, or C based on defined recyclability percentages, with targets set for 2030 and 2038. Steel packaging has demonstrated superior performance in this regard, with all formats graded A or B, outperforming other materials such as plastics and laminated cartons.
The success of steel packaging in meeting and exceeding recycling targets can be attributed to several factors. Steel's inherent magnetic properties make it easy to separate from other waste streams, ensuring efficient collection and processing. Additionally, steel can be recycled indefinitely without losing its quality, making it an ideal material for a circular economy. The industry's ongoing investments in technology and infrastructure have also played a crucial role in improving recycling rates.
As the implementation of the PPWR and its secondary legislation becomes a focal point in the coming months, Steel for Packaging Europe is urging EU institutions to maintain high levels of ambition. The organization believes that collective efforts are essential to build a greener, more circular future in Europe. This call to action underscores the industry's commitment to sustainability and its readiness to lead by example in the transition to a more environmentally friendly packaging landscape.
The record-breaking recycling rate for steel packaging serves as a benchmark for other materials and industries. It demonstrates that with the right combination of material properties, industry collaboration, and supportive regulations, significant progress can be made in reducing waste and promoting circular economy principles. As Europe continues to push for more sustainable packaging solutions, the steel packaging industry's achievements offer valuable insights and inspiration for other sectors striving to improve their environmental performance.
