Steel packaging hits record recycling rate in Europe
This figure, independently verified, marks the highest-ever recycling rate for steel packaging.
Published on June 6, 2025
© Steel for Packaging Europe
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Steel packaging in Europe achieved a recycling rate of 82% in 2023, according to the Steel for Packaging Europe organization. This figure, independently verified and calculated using the EU's harmonized methodology, marks the highest-ever recycling rate for steel packaging. It refers to packaging placed in the market that was actually recycled, meaning that it entered recycling operations and wasn't merely collected.
Steel recycling
Steel recycling is an extensive process that begins with the collection of used steel products. Thanks to its properties, steel can be easily separated from waste streams using magnets, ensuring high purity levels for recycled material. Once collected, the steel is melted down in a furnace and cast into new products.
This process is not only energy efficient, reducing the need for virgin raw material extraction, but also emits significantly lower levels of greenhouse gases. Remarkably, 100% of the recycled steel retains its quality, making it a prime candidate for a range of applications, from new packaging to infrastructure projects like trains or wind turbines.
Contributing to the circular economy
This milestone brings steel closer to closing the materials loop, contributing to the European Union's circular economy goals. By 2050, the EU aims to become a fully circular economy.
Steve Claus, Secretary General of Steel for Packaging Europe, said: "Steel packaging has long set the standard as a model material for a circular economy. The forthcoming new EU Circular Economy Act, which is expected to be implemented in 2026, is set to unify circular economy policies and prioritise sustainable access to critical raw materials. In this context, the importance of steel packaging’s practical, local, and sustainable recycling success story cannot be overstated.”
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