Coca-Cola Enterprises Ltd (‘CCE’) has signalled its support for the work of the aluminium packaging sector in driving up recycling rates by joining recycling organisation Alupro, it is announced today.

The announcement comes as part of a broader CCE commitment to set the standard for sustainable packaging, increase recycling rates and produce 100% recyclable cans and bottles.

Alupro executive director Rick Hindley says: “Having CCE on board as members will lend impetus to our work, taking Alupro to the next level. For the past 22 years we have been working successfully on behalf of aluminium packaging producers, converters and reprocessors. Now our membership represents the entire aluminium supply chain and this will be a major step forward in our efforts to improve the recycling infrastructure, increase collections and encourage people to recycle more.

“Aluminium packaging is 100% recyclable and the reprocessing capacity already exists in the UK, so the challenge is to make sure the collection infrastructure is in place.”

CCE commercial recycling manager Nick Brown said: “CCE has been impressed by Alupro’s work to increase awareness of aluminium packaging recycling and we are looking forward to getting more involved in Alupro’s programmes.

“CCE is committed to transforming recycling by educating and inspiring consumers, by championing improvements to existing collection systems and by investing in strategic recycling infrastructure projects. Alupro membership fits well with that approach.”

Rick Hindley confirmed: “We are excited about the possibilities that working with an organisation like CCE represents; it is an exciting time as we begin to explore the ways in which we can work together and make a real difference to the aluminium recycling industry.”