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Global aluminium recycling production is projected to more than double—from 41 to 92 million tonnes by 2050. Today, around 42% of aluminium scrap comes in mixed or casting alloy forms. This currently works because demand exists for such material, yet even now, about 3 million tonnes of scrap must be upcycled to meet quality standards.
Looking ahead, the challenge will only grow. By 2050, the industry must ensure that at least 75% of scrap is circulated in closed-loop systems to avoid downgrading and prevent material from lacking suitable end uses. Meanwhile, 7 million tonnes of aluminium scrap remain uncollected today—a figure that could double if no action is taken.
Across the value chain, aluminium producers, recyclers, and customers are developing innovative solutions to reduce uncollected scrap and unlock higher-quality recycled material. These efforts focus on strengthening market demand signals, aligning supply and demand, and scaling advanced sorting technologies to increase throughput and expand access to premium secondary aluminium.
With Brazil leading globally in collection and scrap quality, the key question is: what lessons can the world draw from their success?
