Summary
Some companies are switching from plastic to aluminium packaging for products like toiletries and household items. Aluminium is highly recyclable, but making it uses a lot of energy. The packaging industry is exploring aluminium’s benefits as new recycling rules are coming in the EU.
Key Facts
- Meadow is a start-up developing aluminium cans for non-drink products like shampoo and ketchup.
- Aluminium cans have a higher recycling rate (81%) compared to plastic (52%).
- Aluminium is lighter than glass, making it easier and cheaper to transport.
- New EU regulations in 2030 require all packaging to be at least 70% recyclable, increasing to 80% by 2038.
- Producing aluminium requires almost twice as much energy as making glass.
- Aluminium packaging is currently more costly, being four times more expensive than glass.
- Consumers might need to adjust to the new look and feel of aluminium packaging.
