APEAL releases European steel recycling figures

The latest European steel recycling figures have been released by APEAL (the Association of European Producers of Steel for Packaging).

In 2012, 2.7 million tonnes of steel packaging were recycled to make new steel products, corresponding to an average European rate of 74%, reinforcing the trend for steel being the most recycled packaging material in Europe.
The rate of steel packaging recycling has increased threefold over the last 20 years due to a number of factors, including its infinite recyclability, the ease with which steel can be recovered from the waste stream, and an understanding of the resource and emissions savings to be gained.

Alexander Mohr, Secretary General of APEAL, commented: “These figures evidence a continued dedication to the recycling of steel packaging and just how big an impact it can have in driving up rates. While steel maintains its position as the most recycled packaging material in Europe, it is clear there is still some work to be done in order for the industry to hit its vision of 80% recycling rate by 2020. APEAL has no doubt that these targets will be achieved, especially when you consider that the top five recycling countries in Europe already have an average steel recycling rate of 90%.”