UK metals recycling’s operational emissions could fall 93% by 2050 with government support, according to a new report from BMRA.
A Carbon Footprint Assessment commissioned by the British Metals Recycling Association (BMRA) has concluded that UK metals recycling’s Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions could fall 93% by 2050.
However, it specifies that government support is needed for the UK metals recycling to become the first in the world to produce net-zero recycled metal.
The assessment also found that the overall footprint of the UK metals recycling industry, including emissions from upstream and downstream third parties, which includes smelting and refining by steelmakers, could be reduced by 70%.
Switching to steel made from Electric Arc Furnaces (EAFs) could also reduce the industry’s emission footprint by 38%, according to the analysis.
The Assessment was conducted by Tunley Environmental to better understand emissions and to align the industry with the UK Government’s legally binding target to achieve net zero by 2050.
The BMRA has now listed five recommendations for the UK Government. These include ensuring that metals recycling businesses are eligible for the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme, which aims to reduce electricity costs for manufacturing industries.
The other recommendations are to expand the uptake of biofuels by introducing a 10p per litre reduction in fuel duty for biofuels like Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), with an annual review to ensure competitiveness, to provide affordable financing, and to adopt science-based standards, such as the Steel Climate Standard formulated by the Global Steel Climate Council, which do not penalise recycled content.
Finally, the BMRA asks the UK Government to incorporate fee modulation – based on recyclability and recycled content criteria – into upcoming reforms of the Batteries, End-of-Life Vehicle, and Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulations.
Commenting on the launch of the report, BMRA’s President, Susie Burrage OBE, said: “Metals recycling has always been central to the UK’s circular economy, and has been preventing emissions and conserving vital resources for generations.”
“But, as we strive for net zero, our industry’s role has never been more important. This Roadmap shows that with the right policies, collaboration, and investment, the UK metal recyclers can accelerate towards being the first in the world to produce a net zero recycled metal.”