Aluminium Recycling Coalition Drives Major Recycling Transformation in UAE
Aluminium Recycling Coalition, led by Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) and supported by leading beverage producers, can-makers, and waste management companies, has been launched to significantly boost aluminium recycling across the UAE. This initiative marks a major step forward in strengthening national sustainability and circular economy goals.
Industry Leaders Unite Under the Aluminium Recycling Coalition
The coalition was officially launched at EGA’s Al Taweelah facility in the presence of His Excellency Abdullah Bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy, and Her Excellency Mariam bint Mohammed Saeed Hareb Almheiri, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment. It brings together major industry players including Tadweer, Aujan Coca-Cola Beverages Company, Coca-Cola Al Ahlia, BEEAH Tandeef, Dubai Refreshment, CANPACK, Crown Bevcan EMEA, Dulsco Group, and Veolia.
Aluminium remains a vital material for sustainable development due to its durability, light weight, and infinite recyclability. Globally, it is the most recycled industrial material, with over 75 percent of all aluminium ever produced still in use today—a testament to its long-term environmental value.
Boosting Aluminium Recycling Among UAE Consumers
A major focus of the Aluminium Recycling Coalition is increasing recycling rates for beverage cans, which depend largely on consumer behavior. Millions of daily decisions around which bin to use significantly impact collection success, and the coalition aims to drive awareness and encourage responsible disposal.
The initiative’s first major project is supporting a comprehensive study by the International Aluminium Institute. This research will assess aluminium recycling habits across the UAE, helping identify key challenges and high-impact opportunities. Similar studies are currently underway around the world.
- Raising awareness around proper aluminium disposal
- Collaborating on recycling policies and regulations
- Strengthening aluminium recycling infrastructure in the UAE
Supporting UAE Policy and Building Stronger Recycling Infrastructure
The coalition will work closely with UAE Government entities to support the creation of enhanced recycling policies, contribute to regulatory development, and collaborate on expanding the nation’s recycling infrastructure. These efforts will help accelerate national goals tied to the circular economy and sustainable growth.
His Excellency Abdullah Bin Touq Al Marri emphasized the importance of the Aluminium Recycling Coalition, noting that it strengthens the UAE’s global leadership in green development and contributes directly to building a resilient, knowledge-based economy aligned with the UAE Circular Economy Policy 2031.
Her Excellency Mariam Almheiri highlighted that global aluminium demand is expected to surge by up to 80 percent by 2050 due to its critical role in achieving net-zero ambitions. Collaboration across the entire value chain—such as demonstrated by this coalition—is essential to support decarbonization and long-term sustainability goals.
Driving National Progress Through Unified Sustainability Efforts
Ali Al Dhaheri, CEO of Tadweer, noted that joining the Aluminium Recycling Coalition aligns with the UAE’s broader sustainability ambitions. He emphasized that recycling and circular economy initiatives are crucial pillars of national progress and public awareness campaigns.
EGA CEO Abdulnasser Bin Kalban stressed the importance of improving recycling rates, stating that significant volumes of valuable aluminium are still being discarded daily. Through the Aluminium Recycling Coalition, EGA aims to maximize circularity while advancing both economic and environmental benefits throughout the country.
EGA is also recognized as the first Middle Eastern company to join the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative and remains an industry leader in reusing operational by-products. In addition, last year EGA announced plans to build the UAE’s largest aluminium recycling facility, further reinforcing its commitment to sustainable manufacturing.
Learn more about global aluminium recycling initiatives by visiting the International Aluminium Institute, and explore