The European Commission has proposed limiting exports of aluminium scrap in an effort to prevent large volumes of the material from leaving the European Union and to avoid potential shortages for domestic industry. The initiative was welcomed by the aluminium lobby group European Aluminium, which urged policymakers to introduce export fees on aluminium scrap.
Recycling sector’s criticism
The Bureau of International Recycling (BIR), a Brussels-based organisation representing 37 national recycling federations, has strongly opposed the proposal. According to BIR, an export ban or trade restrictions would be “neither necessary nor effective“. According to BIR, “the EU already generates more aluminium scrap than can be absorbed domestically”.
Economic risks for recyclers
BIR warned that restricting exports could lead to an oversupply of aluminium scrap within the EU, causing prices to fall and putting recyclers under economic pressure. The organisation argued that these effects could make recycling activities financially unsustainable and reduce the sector’s capacity to operate efficiently.
Impact on the circular economy
According to BIR, the proposed restrictions “would ultimately reduce collection and recycling rates, increase the risk of unmanaged waste streams, and undermine the circular economy“.
The Commission has said it will propose focused measures for aluminium scrap by the second quarter of this year.
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