Alupro convened some of Scotland’s leading political figures to foster cross-party support for the upcoming deposit return scheme (DRS). The aim is to expedite the journey towards a genuinely circular economy by 2025, focusing particularly on the role of food and beverage packaging in sustainability.
Sponsored by Clare Haughey, MSP for Rutherglen, the expert panel discussion was held at the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh. Simon Johnson, The Daily Telegraph’s Scottish political editor, chaired the session, which featured prominent speakers such as Mercedes Villalba MSP, spokesperson for net zero and biodiversity; Maurice Golden MSP, convener of the cross-party group on circular economy; and Tom Giddings, executive director of Alupro.
Throughout the discussion, participants examined not only Scotland’s DRS and its vital components for fostering long-term positive change, but also the national progress towards a more circular economy. The dialogue emphasized the importance of aluminium as a key packaging material in helping achieve future sustainability goals in food and beverage packaging.
Reflecting on the event, Giddings stated: “It was a real privilege to bring together some of Scotland’s most notable energy and environment ministers to discuss upcoming policy, dig deeper into the latest recycling rates, and share insights on accelerating circular economy thinking. I’d like to extend my warmest thanks to Clare Haughey MSP for sponsoring the event, as well as Simon Johnson for hosting and the other speakers for their valuable contributions.”
“With members spanning the entire supply chain, Alupro serves as the voice of the aluminium packaging industry regarding government policy and legislative development. While UK aluminium packaging recycling rates have continued to rise in 2024, maintaining positive policy progress is critical for increasing collection volumes and improving material quality. This also aids the sector in advancing towards a more sustainable circular economy.”
For further information about Alupro and its commitment to meet and exceed recycling targets for aluminium packaging, please visit
https://alupro.org.uk/