The UK will consume an estimated 2 billion canned drinks over the course of the FIFA World Cup 2026, according to Recycle Now and Every Can Counts.
Recycle Now is encouraging football fans to support the environment during the tournament with a campaign promoting the recyclability of cans, both at home and when out watching the games.
Adam Herriott, Recycle Now, commented: “Just like any international footballer, aluminium cans can enjoy a glittering career and go for a lot of money on the transfer market.”
“Given this year’s tournament is in Canada, Mexico and the USA, many people will be toasting their team with canned drinks at home. Our campaign reminds everyone – don’t binny your tinny – because the World Cup isn’t the only valuable metal being traded this year.”
As well as urging football fans to dispose of their drink cans sustainably this summer, Every Can Counts is promoting the importance of recycling this summer.
The not-for-profit communications programme, which is funded by drink can manufacturers, will have a presence at music festivals this year and engage with attendees to spread their recycling message.
Chris Latham-Warde, Programme Manager for Every Can Counts, said the FIFA World Cup 2026 tournament is an ‘important opportunity’ to highlight the importance of recycling in our everyday lives.
“Aluminium can be recycled time and time again, and that’s why we’re encouraging fans to make recycling part of their matchday routine, wherever they’re watching the game,” Latham-Warde said.
“Each empty drink can collected and recycled helps keep aluminium in circulation and can be back on shelves as a new can in as little as 60 days. So, every action, no matter how small, really does add up to help make a big difference.”
Every year, 10 billion aluminium cans are recycled across the UK, preventing three million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions from occurring – the equivalent to taking almost 700,000 cars off the road.
Aluminium cans have a recycling value of around £1,000 a tonne, meaning across the whole of the UK, recycled cans consumed during the tournament could cover the current transfer fees for a range of players.
Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh commented: “As the World Cup kicks off, let’s make our recycling world class!”
“Don’t score an own goal by littering matchday drinks. Protect our beautiful countryside, channel Harry Kane, and hit top bins by recycling your cans!”