Metal packaging
Metal is special as a material because it can be recycled almost endlessly without its properties deteriorating.
Collection of metal packaging from households and businesses
According to official statistics from the Pirkanmaa ELY Centre, the recycling rate for metal packaging in Finland in 2022 was 67% for ferrous metals and 87% for aluminium. The EU target for both is 80% by 2030.
From households, metal packaging is collected from properties with more than five apartments; others take their packaging waste to regional collection points. See here for sorting instructions.
A company or public organisation must collect metal waste separately if at least 2 kg is generated per week. Examples of metal packaging from businesses include drums, metal hoops and strapping wires, roll cages, transport supports (dunnage) and small containers.
Material codes for metal
Metal packaging uses material markings to indicate the material from which the product is made of. The most common labels are:
- Steel: FE 40
- Aluminium: ALU 41
What is made from recycled metal?
Recycled metal is processed and melted down into raw materials for new products. It is used to make new metal packaging, bicycle frames, shovels, door hinges, car parts, etc. Recycling metal saves significant energy compared to the production of virgin metal.
