The European and global dimension of aluminium recycling at present and in future

The paper describes the current status of the European and global aluminium recycling network. Based on this, the author outlines prospects and scenarios for future developments. He explains his considerations as to how the significance of recycling aluminium as a raw material source, as compared to primary aluminium as a raw material source, will increase with regard to the overall aluminium supply. Topics covered in this context are potential structural changes in the aluminium recycling industry, recycling logistics (open or closed-loop cycles) and technological requirements for the collection and treatment of secondary raw materials. In addition the European end-of-life-vehicles directive is used as an example to demonstrate the EU legislation's impact on the recycling of aluminium.