Amcor introduces 90% recycled tin

Amcor Capsules has announced it will be introducing more than 90% recycled tin into its premium tin capsules and sparkling foils range.

The news comes as the global wine and spirits capsules and closures firm aims to improve its sustainability objectives. It has also now established sourcing schemes that will enable the company to use recycled tin from end-of-life products, such as car radiators and batteries, ship propellers and bronze scraps from ornaments or statues. After recycling, the tin material is adapted and re-used for capsules and capping purposes.

The strategic shift has been effective since mid-April 2024, according to the firm, and aims to ensure premium tin product contributes to a more local and circular economy. Integrating pre-consumer and post-consumer recycled tin hasn’t changed the production process or lead time, it said.

As a result of the move, Amcor Capsules has reduce the carbon emissions of its product by up to 70% from cradle to gate, with a certified level of greenhouse gas emissions reducution to 1.6 tonnes of CO2e per tonne of tin, in comparison with the global average at 6.6.

In addition, the products are recyclable, and have received certification from Institute Cyclos-HTP, an independent third party that confirms a recyclability of 99% for tin capsule in countries where the capsules can be recycled through both glass and metal recycling streams, and 60% in countries where metal collection and sorting cannot be assumed as predominant.

Speaking about the news, Bertrand Daru, sustainability director for Amcor Capsules, said: “At Amcor Capsules, we’re proud of our continuous innovation.

“This strategic shift means that our customers benefit from the same premium caps and sparkling foils, but with a more sustainable profile that supports their own environmental targets. After successfully integrating recycled content into our screw cap range, we are proud to extend this innovation to the tin segment of our portfolio”.

Chris Holman, general manager of cork and packaging at Scott Laboratories added: “Amcor Capsules’ integration of more than 90% recycled tin aligns with our sustainability and B-Corp goals as a company.

“We are proud to partner with companies such as Amcor Capsules, making our products a clear choice for customers who share the same conscience about sustainability as us. With Scott Labs offering the best-in-class packaging solutions, Amcor Capsules’ product helps our customers to reach their sustainability goals. It’s a win-win!”