Aluminium Packaging EPR Guide
Complete guide to aluminium packaging EPR obligations. Covers cans, foils, blister packs, closures, and reporting requirements.
Fee Rate 2025-26
£50/tonne
UK Recycling Rate
82% (2024 UK figure for cans)
Recyclability
Infinitely recyclable. Aluminium retains full quality through recycling. High sc...
Common Aluminium Packaging
Aluminium has the second-lowest EPR fee rate at £50/tonne for 2025-2026, reflecting its excellent recyclability and high material value. The scrap value of aluminium means collection and recycling infrastructure is well-established.
Common Aluminium Packaging
- Beverage cans — the most common aluminium packaging. Typically 12-16g per can.
- Foil containers — takeaway trays, pie dishes, BBQ trays.
- Pharmaceutical blister foils — the aluminium component of alu-alu or PVC/alu blisters.
- Tubes — toothpaste, cream, food tubes.
- Closures — screw caps for wine, spirits, and soft drinks.
- Aerosol cans — deodorants, air fresheners, food sprays.
Aluminium vs Steel
Beverage cans are aluminium. Food cans (baked beans, soup) are typically steel. The difference matters for EPR — aluminium is £50/tonne while steel is £44/tonne. Both are cheap compared to plastic. Use a magnet to quickly check: steel is magnetic, aluminium is not.
Modulated Fee Impact (RAM)
Aluminium scores very well under RAM. Established recycling infrastructure and high material value make it one of the most recyclable packaging materials.
Sectors Using Aluminium Packaging
Pharmaceutical & Healthcare
EPR compliance for UK pharmaceutical and healthcare businesses. Track blister packs, bottles, and medical packaging....
Drinks & Beverages
EPR compliance for UK drinks manufacturers, importers, and retailers. Track bottles, cans, cartons, and multipack packag...
Confectionery
EPR compliance for UK confectionery manufacturers. Track wrappers, boxes, and seasonal packaging....
Aluminium EPR Questions
How do I tell aluminium from steel packaging?
Use a magnet. Steel is magnetic, aluminium is not. Beverage cans are almost always aluminium. Food cans are typically steel. The EPR fee rates are similar (£50 vs £44) but correct classification matters for compliance.
Are aluminium foil lids packaging?
Yes. Foil lids on yoghurt pots, ready meals, and similar containers are separate packaging components. Report the foil lid under aluminium and the container under its respective material.
Do aluminium screw caps need separate reporting?
Yes, if the cap is a different material from the container. An aluminium screw cap on a glass wine bottle is reported under aluminium separately from the glass bottle.
Is aluminium foil wrap packaging?
Aluminium foil sold as a product (kitchen foil rolls) is not packaging. Foil used to wrap products (chocolate, pharmaceutical blisters) IS packaging and must be reported.
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