The aluminium recycling sector has distanced itself from the findings of the report which says that by just using current collection methods, future packaging waste recycling targets for aluminium are likely to be missed. And, the industry has reassured collectors that the value of a typical can for recycling is unlikely to fall below 0.7p.
The report, produced by an internal ACP sub-committee, raises two key issues concerning the aluminium sector, on data and its ability to meet targets.
On the first point, data, the sub-committee says that there seems to be more used aluminium cans in the dustbin than is reported by the aluminium can industry as being manufactured.
The industry counters that it is not happy with the sub-committee work because a slight over calculation at the dustbin level has significant implications when averaged out because aluminium is a lightweight material.
Collection methods
On the second point, about collection methods, the committee report says the aluminium protocol (which accepts there is a certain amount of packaging in each tonne of aluminium scrap) “has taken some pressure off recovery in the short term. Nevertheless, meeting the requirements for the proposed targets will require some significant growth that is unlikely using current methods… It is collection that is the issue with processing and reprocessing capacity felt to be sufficient.”
Alex Griffin, Alupro operations director, told letsrecycle, that he did not agree with this report. “We do envisage large growth in kerbside collections by local authorities. And, we are looking for growth in all collection methods, cash for cans, eddy current separators at waste transfer stations, banks and kerbside.”
Mr Griffin said he was aware that some local authorities are currently looking to target the heavier fractions, such as composting and newspapers, because they had weight-based targets to meet.
“I feel that politically they need to look at packaging. There is a whole range of best value indicators they have to satisfy and the value of aluminium can help them there. We have the business model at Alupro which can provide help and assistance.”
Prices
And, Mr Griffin said that recent cuts in the prices paid for used aluminium beverage cans by the major reprocessors would have little effect on the collection chain.
“There are always concerns that price falls will hit collections. You can't avoid market forces. The UBC price is still relatively high when compared to other grades of aluminium scrap. The trade players appreciate that and the price fall is no surprise to them. They are pragmatic and know the world economy and that the price still offers them a cushion.”
The can trade is good at protecting small-scale and consumer collectors of used aluminium beverage cans, said Mr Griffin. “My view and belief is that they will absorb some of these reductions. The average price at 45p a kilo is for 60 cans a kilo. If it falls to 40p, the consumer or collector will receive the best part of .7p and the price per kilo is unlikely to go below 40p.”
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