PCR Aluminium-Why is it so popular?

PCR (Post consumer) aluminium is a recent advancement utilising aluminium consumer waste in the production of high quality reycled aluminium bottles. It was developed in 2020 by a very important partner factory, when they mastered the art of using drinks cans discarded by consumers to create a high-quality Aluminium with PCR content. This can be in 100% pcr or 50% pcr. Bluesky has been promoting and selling this since 2021.

Why is it a benefit?

The stock of recycled aluminium is continually growing and by using quality consumer waste, not only does this assist with a quality product but it can reduce up to 96% in carbon dioxide emissions.

What does the Future look like?

Using post-consumer material does mean that different tooling and processes have to be utilised in the manufacture process, this takes time to adapt, but there is no limit to the PCR that is available. A recent study highlighted that by 2050, aluminium scrap sources are expected to triple to 60 million tonnes. An estimated 11% of this is from used beverage cans, and with excellent recycling rates on aluminium and metal consumer waste, this could mean that the large range of products available from Bluesky could all be produced in 100% PCR by 2025. (currently many of our screw can bottles are available in PCR).

Why is change so important?

Producing secondary aluminium (PCR Aluminium) saves up to 95% energy in comparison to producing Primary aluminium. The estimated global annual production of primary aluminium is circa 60 million tonnes. If primary production tonnage can be matched with recycled aluminium content (as estimated), and we continue to adapt technologies and processes, this is a huge reduction in our carbon footprint, and we are already on that Journey.

Does this mean Primary Aluminium is bad?

Certainly not. Much of the press we see about virgin/primary aluminium does not focus on life cycle data, and when aluminium is compared with other materials based on lifecycle, it is hard to match. Even when you factor in extraction, manufacturing, shipping and use on primary product, it stands tall in its credentials. Further to this, you have the excellent recycling credentials of the product on its secondary journey.

Fun Fact.

1 tonne of primary aluminium (about 7 million beer cans), would make 300 bike frames. (Drinking beer and riding bikes can be tricky, but next time you enjoy a pint, why not plan your next cycle ride)?