Emirates Global Aluminium Launches Recycling in the UAE

Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), a leader in global aluminum production, has collaborated with major beverage producers, can makers, and waste management companies, to launch the Aluminum Recycling Coalition, which aims to bring about a gradual change in aluminum recycling operations in the UAE.

The coalition was launched at EGA’s Al Taweelah site in the presence of HE Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, and HE Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, Minister of Climate Change and Environment.

The coalition members  include EGA, Abu Dhabi Waste Management Centre (Tadweer), Aujan Coca-Cola Beverages Company, Coca Cola Al Ahlia Beverages Company, BEEAH Tandeef, Pepsi-bottler Dubai Refreshments, CANPACK UAE, Crown Bevcan EMEA, Dulsco Group, and Veolia.

Aluminum, being infinitely recyclable, plays a vital role in the development of a more sustainable society since its properties are ideal to make everything from packaging to lightweight electric vehicles.

The Aluminum Recycling Coalition aims to promote recycling by consumers in the UAE, particularly the beverage cans, and increase collection rates by encouraging individuals to adopt a sustainable lifestyle.

As its maiden project, the coalition intends to support a study by UK-based International Aluminium Institute on aluminum recycling rates and behaviors in the UAE to fully understand the scale of the opportunity and identify potential solutions. The International Aluminum Institute is the global trade association for the aluminum industry, and conducts similar studies around the world.

The coalition also expects to provide support to the UAE government on the necessary regulations and policies on aluminum recycling, and join hands to further the development of aluminum recycling infrastructure.

Economy Minister Al Marri says, “The Aluminum Recycling Coalition is led by Emirates Global Aluminium, the biggest ‘premium aluminum’ producer in the world and the heart of the aluminum sector in the UAE, generating over $5 billion annually to the national economy. It will enhance the position of the UAE as a global leader in international efforts towards green development, support our 2031 goals on circular economy, and contribute to building a knowledge-based economy that is more resilient and competitive.”

On her part, Climate Change and Environment Minister Almheiri added, “Aluminum demand is expected to grow worldwide by between 50% and 80% by 2050, because of the key role of this infinitely recyclable metal in achieving net zero. Cooperation throughout the value chain, such as the Aluminum Recycling Coalition, will speed the decarbonisation of our economy in line with Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative.  I wish EGA and the other members of the Aluminum Recycling Coalition every success in their collective endeavour.”

Talking about the joint initiative, Ali Al Dhaheri, CEO of Abu Dhabi Waste Management Centre (Tadweer), says. “We are delighted to be a partner of the Aluminum Recycling Coalition founded by EGA, and are looking forward to usher in the next era of aluminum recycling in the UAE through concentrated efforts. Recycling and circular economy are two key pillars of our country’s ambition towards prosperity. For us at Tadweer, this is also part of our commitment to support national platforms that support sustainability and raise awareness on the importance of recycling in the UAE.”

EGA CEO Abdulnasser Bin Kalban adds, “One reason aluminum is so important for human progress is its recyclability, but in everyday society we throw away too much of this valuable metal.  By championing the Aluminum Recycling Coalition, EGA aims to increase aluminum recycling rates in the UAE to the benefit of our society and economy. I thank all partners for joining us in this initiative.”

EGA was the first headquartered company in the Middle East to join the Aluminum Stewardship Initiative, a global body that sets sustainability standards for the industry. EGA is a global aluminum industry leader in the re-use of by-products from its own operators.