The aluminium economy is a circular economy. For most aluminium products, the metal is not actually consumed during the product's lifetime, but simply used with the potential to be used again through recycling. Aluminium can be recycled again and again without any loss of its inherent properties, since its atomic structure is not altered during melting.
Therefore, the life cycle of an aluyminium product is not the traditional 'cradle-to-grave' sequence, but rather a renewable 'cradle-to-cradle'.
The high value of aluminium scrap is a key incentive and major economic impetus for recycling, independent of any legislative or political initiatives to encourage recycling.
Aluminium scrap has considerable market value because most of the energy required for the production of primary aluminium is embodied in the metal itself and, consequently, in the scrp. Therefore, the energy needed to melt aluminium scrap is only a fraction of that required for aluminium production.
Recycling of aluminium products needs only 5% of the energy needed for primary aluminium production.
Our manufacturing partners all have recycling programmes integrated into their production operations. This is not only good for the environment but also makes good business sense as it reduces raw material costs.
With 'sustainability' high on everyone's checklist, it all makes good sense.
