GERMANY – US industrial aluminium company, Novelis, has announced a US$30 million investment in its facility in Plettenberg-Ohle, Germany to meet growing demand for sustainable packaging.
Novelis plans to use the funds to build a new continuous annealing line at the facility, increasing the capacity for aluminum used in the production of coffee capsules.
The Atlanta, Georgia headquartered company says that the investment will strengthen its position in the high-recycled-content packaging market.
According to Novelis, aluminum offers “unique” barrier properties and protects the freshness and aromas of capsulated coffee from moisture, light and air.
Emilio Braghi, EVP and president at Novelis Europe, said: “The investment demonstrates our commitment to serve as a trusted partner for our food and packaging industry customers, and create more sustainable solutions for consumers”.
“Increasing the use of recycled aluminium helps us reduce the use of natural resources, strengthen the circular economy and thus limit climate change.”
Novelis expects the line to commence operations in spring 2024, with construction preparations to begin after final government approval.
Providing more products from recycled aluminium is in line with Novelis’ sustainability commitment to achieve a 30% carbon footprint reduction by 2026 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 or sooner.
Aluminium Cup with 90% recycled content
Braghi notes that by investing in sustainable packaging solutions, Novelis will also be helping its customers reach their sustainability goals as well.
The company recently helped its client sustainable aluminium packaging solution provider Ball to increase the recycled content rate in the Ball Aluminium Cup to 90%.
Increasing the recycled content in the cup significantly reduces its carbon footprint, and using recycled aluminum consumes 95% less energy, compared to using primary aluminium.
Ball Corporation president and CEO Dan Fisher said: “At Ball, we’re committed to innovative solutions that contribute to creating a truly circular economy.
“Aluminium beverage packaging, including the Ball Aluminium Cup, has always been a sustainable alternative to plastic, and this update only further strengthens its sustainability attributes.”
The new sustainable aluminum cup is produced at Ball Corporation’s site in Rome, Georgia, and is already in use by Ball customers.
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