The U.S. aluminum recycling market is strong, resilient and growing, with plenty of supply to meet demand, says a new study from Mining and Materials Markets Ltd. The report finds that聽there’s no shortage of available aluminum for recycling in the United States. In fact, according to MM Markets, there is more than four times as much aluminum available for recycling than we consume today, and supply will continue to outpace demand over the next 15 years.聽 As such, there is no need for restrictions on the export trade for recycled aluminum from the United States.
The study notes that when demand for recycled aluminum rises, higher prices draw even more material into the recycling stream. The industry maintains reserve processing capacity and continues to invest in new innovative technologies to quickly scale capabilities as markets expand.
鈥淭his study shows that the United States has an abundant reserve of recoverable aluminum,鈥� said ReMA President Robin Wiener. 鈥淭he U.S. aluminum recycling market is built on strong economics, proven technology and an abundant resource reserve base. Aluminum is a clear American success story: a market driven economy that delivers environmental, economic and community benefits while ensuring long-term supply stability. Any talk of export restrictions or bans is totally unwarranted.鈥�
The study also noted that in 2025 U.S. recyclers will consume approximately 4 million tons of recycled aluminum, while an estimated 18.2 million tons remain in aging buildings, vehicles, equipment and infrastructure available for end-of life recovery. By 2040, this pool is projected to grow to 21.8 million tons compared to 5.6 million tons of expected consumption. More than enough supply of recycled aluminum to fully support the needs of the U.S. manufacturing basis now and into the future, completely undermining calls for export controls.