Why the Can?

• 75% of all aluminium produced since 1888 is still in use today.
• The UK recycles over 72% of all cans. 
• It takes 95% less energy to make a can from recycled materials.

Not all recycled materials hold the same value. For example, plastics cost more to be recycled than it costs to use virgin plastics. Until the economics work, or the law changes, this won't change on a scale needed. 

Plastics have a short lifespan, even when recycled. On average, plastics are recycled only 2x before they're no longer recyclable (usually ending up in materials and fabrics)

Aluminium is the only material that more than covers its recycling costs, helping finance the collection and recycling of other materials such as plastic and glass.

The infrastructure is in place in the UK to recycle every can made.

Currently there is only one site in the UK that can recycle milk cartons even though they are deemed 'recyclable'. They can do 40% of the current volumes, meaning 60% will go into landfill. Being recyclable isn't the only issue we need resolved. Waste streams are often the bigger issue. 

Metals are a real circular resource. This means they're infinitely recyclable, time after time, after time.

Celebrate the evolution of design icon. The can has been evolving its form since the 1960's, and the current form uses half of the metal historically used per can. Making the most of less is good for resources, and also better for shipping impacts.The can is now ubiquitous with many existing designed services already built in (think of the vending machine!)