In the drive towards sustainable packaging, metal stands tall – not just as a robust material but as the ultimate circular solution. From beverage cans to tin containers, metal packaging is infinitely recyclable, endlessly reusable and remarkably energy efficient. In South Africa, MetPac-SA is driving efforts to push its potential even further.

‘Every can collected and recycled is a win – for the environment, for the economy and for future generations,’ says Dr Kishan Singh, CEO of MetPac-SA, the Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO) dedicated to advancing the metal packaging industry. ‘Metal doesn’t just tick the sustainability box – it redefines it.’

Sustainability starts with design. By optimising wall thickness in cans and closures using advanced forming technologies, manufacturers are slashing raw material usage while maintaining strength and barrier performance. These innovations reduce energy consumption and lower carbon emissions – all without compromising product integrity.

It’s a win-win: less material in, more performance out. And when the packaging reaches the end of its life cycle, it’s ready for recycling without complexity or compromise.

Closing the loop with recycled content

One of MetPac-SA’s core objectives is to increase the proportion of post-consumer recycled (PCR) content in metal packaging. Under South Africa’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations, PCR excludes pre-consumer or factory waste, ensuring that real-world waste is returned to the production cycle.

Aluminium in particular is a poster child for circularity. A staggering 75% of all aluminium ever produced is still in use today. Globally, over 30 million tons of aluminium scrap are recycled each year, saving up to 95% of the energy required to produce new metal from bauxite.

‘Every recycled can is more than just material recovered – it’s proof that circularity works,’ says Kishan. ‘It can be back on the shelf in just 60 days, as good as new.’

Smarter materials

Metal packaging’s recyclability is also enhanced by smart material choices. Mono-material designs, modular components and easily detachable parts help eliminate contamination and simplify sorting. Ink and coating systems are evolving too – with water-based and UV-curable options replacing solvent-based alternatives, reducing emissions and supporting eco-labelling.

Even decoration is becoming more eco-conscious. Techniques like laser etching or embossing offer premium branding with fewer layers and materials.

Designed to last (and last again)

While most metal packaging is destined for recycling, some is designed to go the distance. Durable tins, pails and specialty cans are made for reuse and refill, with resealable, attractive designs that live beyond a single use.

Producers are also investing in lightweight alloys, stackable formats and space-efficient designs that reduce both material usage and transportation emissions. Clean production technologies and energy-efficient machinery are helping manufacturers lower their environmental impact across the entire life cycle of the pack.

‘We want the industry to think beyond packaging’s end of life,’ says Kishan. ‘It’s about minimising the impact at every step – from production to logistics to reuse and recycling.’

A circular economy only works if the infrastructure supports it. Through EPR schemes, MetPac-SA works with producers, collectors and recyclers to build strong, efficient recovery systems.

In particular, informal waste collectors play a vital role. By partnering with and supporting these grassroots networks, MetPac-SA is strengthening supply chains, creating jobs and ensuring that more metal finds its way back into the loop – not the landfill.

‘South Africa has made real progress in metal packaging recycling,’ Kishan notes. ‘Now it’s about scaling those gains – making it easier, faster and more rewarding for all stakeholders.’

With its infinite recyclability, strength and energy efficiency, metal packaging remains unmatched in its sustainability credentials. Through MetPac-SA’s leadership and the industry’s continued innovation, there is proof that packaging can be both circular and high-performance.

‘The circular economy isn’t just an idea – it’s already here, taking shape through action and collaboration,’ concludes Kishan. ‘And metal packaging is right at the centre of it.’

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