Aluminum Association Prioritizes Recycling and Trade Enforcement in 2025 Policy Framework

Recycling Efforts to Boost U.S. Aluminum Supply and Sustainability
The Aluminum Association, representing companies responsible for 70% of North America’s aluminum production, has outlined its key policy priorities for the 2025 period in the document titled “Aluminum for America: A Presidential Policy Brief.” Among the top priorities highlighted by the organization is the urgent need to improve the U.S. aluminum recycling system. The association underscores that improving collection infrastructure, implementing recycling refund programs, and expanding Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) systems are crucial for boosting domestic aluminum supply and reducing environmental impacts.

A key statistic presented by the Aluminum Association is that more than $1 billion worth of used beverage cans (UBCs) are discarded in landfills every year, representing a significant loss of valuable metal that could be recycled into new products. By enhancing recycling systems and collection efforts, the Aluminum Association argues that the U.S. could not only reduce its dependence on foreign aluminum sources but also lower energy consumption, as recycling aluminum uses 95% less energy compared to producing new aluminum from raw materials.

Aluminum Recycling Drives Energy Efficiency and Job Growth
Recycling aluminum is not only an environmental benefit but also a significant driver of economic and job growth. The Aluminum Association reports that recycled aluminum already accounts for over 80% of U.S. aluminum production, emphasizing the sector’s reliance on scrap metal. Increasing the domestic recycling rate would not only help meet growing demand for aluminum but also support manufacturing jobs and energy savings. By investing in recycling infrastructure and policies, such as deposit-return and EPR systems, the association believes the U.S. can maximize its aluminum recycling potential, creating a more sustainable and self-reliant industry.

Trade Enforcement Critical to Protect U.S. Aluminum Industry
In addition to recycling, the Aluminum Association calls for stronger trade enforcement to address unfair practices, particularly from China. The organization highlights that China’s aluminum industry has been heavily subsidized, with the U.S. aluminum sector facing unfair competition as a result. The Aluminum Association advocates for stronger import monitoring and tariff harmonization within North America to protect U.S. producers and counter the $60 billion in Chinese subsidies that have disrupted global aluminum markets. However, the association emphasizes that trade enforcement efforts should be targeted and focus on strengthening partnerships with key allies like Canada, rather than imposing broader tariffs that could harm essential supply chains.

Economic Growth and Industry Investment
The Aluminum Association also points to the growth of the U.S. aluminum industry, which generates nearly $228 billion in direct and indirect economic impact and supports close to 700,000 jobs. Over the past decade, the U.S. has invested more than $10 billion in aluminum recycling and processing infrastructure, signaling the industry’s commitment to growth and sustainability. Despite these investments, primary aluminum production in the U.S. has declined, with demand for aluminum continuing to grow in sectors like sustainable packaging, automotive, and infrastructure.

With U.S. aluminum demand rising by more than 5% annually, Charles Johnson, president and CEO of the Aluminum Association, stresses that decisive policy action is necessary to unlock the full potential of the aluminum industry. By improving recycling rates and addressing trade challenges, the U.S. can continue to lead in both aluminum production and recycling, securing the industry’s future while promoting energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.