Highest-ever EU recycling rate for steel packaging achieved
A record 82% of steel packaging in the EU was truly recycled in 2023, marking the highest recycling rate ever for the sector. This milestone, verified using the EU’s harmonized methodology, confirms that steel remains the most recycled packaging material in Europe—well ahead of upcoming regulatory requirements under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). The increase, up two percentage points from 2022, highlights the essential role of steel scrap in sustainable steel production, helping reduce energy use and emissions. Steve Claus, Secretary General of Steel Packaging Europe, emphasized that the figure reflects real recycling at the entrance of operations—not just collection—and showcases the material’s ability to be endlessly reused without quality loss. From trains to food cans, recycled steel becomes new products. Claus urged continued investment in high-quality recycling systems and called for EU policies that ensure both environmental progress and the global competitiveness of steel packaging. Learn more about this achievement.
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