BMRA Calls on UK Government to Improve Conditions for Metal Recyclers

The British Metals Recycling Association (BMRA), representing the UK’s metals recycling industry, is urging the government to create a more favorable business environment for metal recyclers. This would not only help the industry grow and thrive but also contribute to the UK’s ambition of achieving net zero emissions by 2050. The BMRA’s calls come amid increasing challenges faced by recyclers and the growing importance of the sector in meeting sustainability targets.

Key Issues Raised in BMRA’s Agenda for Change

The BMRA presented an “Agenda for Change” document to MPs at a parliamentary dinner, highlighting key asks for the UK government to support the industry. The main points include:

1. Unrestricted Free and Fair Trade

BMRA calls for the removal of export restrictions on metal, arguing that the UK metal recycling industry is capable of supporting the UK steel industry with enough scrap metal. Removing restrictions would unlock more growth potential for the sector.

2. Improved Waste Treatment Facilities

The BMRA is asking for additional treatment facilities to handle hazardous and POPs (persistent organic pollutants) waste. These measures would also encourage eco-design strategies to reduce harmful substances used in products.

3. Energy Cost Reductions for Recycling Industry  

The BMRA urges the government to extend the British Industry Supercharger, which would lower energy rates for metal recyclers. This would not only support recycling businesses but also enable technological innovations between recyclers and steelmakers.

4. Safer Recycling Practices for Batteries and Small Electronics

There have been increasing concerns over fires caused by lithium-ion batteries entering recycling and waste sites. The BMRA advocates for better kerbside collection programs for batteries and small Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE), to prevent these safety hazards.

5. Minimum Recycled Content for Public Infrastructure Projects  

The BMRA urges the government to establish minimum recycled content requirements for new public sector infrastructure projects, aligning public spending with sustainability goals.

6. Deposit Return Schemes for Recyclable Metal     

A variable-rate deposit return scheme would incentivize the use of recyclable metals instead of plastic, helping to reduce plastic consumption and promote the recycling of steel and aluminum.

The Importance of Metal Recycling to Achieve Net Zero

James Kelly, CEO of BMRA, emphasized the crucial role of metal recycling in achieving the UK’s net zero target by 2050. Recycling metals, which are 100% recyclable, significantly reduces CO₂ emissions by lowering the need for primary extraction of raw materials. Additionally, it preserves natural habitats and reduces environmental damage caused by mining. 

BMRA’s call to the UK government is clear: support for the metal recycling industry is essential not only to meet current sustainability needs but also to achieve long-term environmental goals. A more supportive regulatory and economic environment will help the industry thrive, create jobs, reduce emissions, and support the government’s net-zero targets. The BMRA’s proposed changes would enable the sector to operate more efficiently and sustainably, paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future.