The cans for our advent calendar are made of aluminum for a simple reason: they are especially lightweight and thus best suited to the box we design each year. This is important because when 24 different coffees come together, things can quickly get heavy, especially when you want to ship worldwide. But there are more reasons:
Aluminum is often regarded as the metal of the future, especially when it comes to sustainability and recycling. Despite widespread assumptions about the environmental impact of its production, aluminum offers numerous advantages that make it a particularly environmentally friendly material. Here are some reasons why aluminum, contrary to popular belief, is very sustainable, easy to ship, and superb for recycling.
Lightweight and Energy Efficiency
Aluminum is a lightweight among metals, making it an ideal material for transport and the packaging industry. Its low weight significantly reduces energy consumption and emissions in the transportation of goods. Vehicles made of aluminum, such as cars and airplanes, consume less fuel and emit less CO2 because they are lighter. This efficiency boost in transportation makes aluminum a key player in efforts to reduce the environmental impact of transportation.
High Recyclability and Efficiency
Aluminum stands out for its exceptional recyclability. It can be recycled almost infinitely without loss of quality, meaning that once produced, aluminum can potentially be used forever. The recycling process consumes only about 5% of the energy required for the original production of aluminum. This energy efficiency in the recycling process significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and saves valuable resources.
Durability and Reusability
Aluminum is not only lightweight and energy-efficient but also durable and corrosion-resistant. These properties extend the lifespan of aluminum products and reduce the need for frequent replacement or repairs. The durability of aluminum products promotes sustainability, as less material is needed over time.
Impressive Recycling Record
An impressive fact about aluminum is that the majority of aluminum ever produced is still in use today. This high rate of reuse and recycling contributes to reducing the need for new raw materials and minimizes the ecological footprint of aluminum production. It is estimated that about 75% of all aluminum ever produced is still actively used today, highlighting the effectiveness of the recycling process and the sustainability of the material.
Despite the energy-intensive primary production, aluminum offers significant environmental benefits through its lightweight nature, high recyclability, and durability. The ability to recycle aluminum almost infinitely without loss of quality, combined with the fact that a large portion of the produced aluminum is still in use, makes it an exemplary model for sustainable material use. These characteristics position aluminum as a key player in the transition to a more sustainable economy and a more environmentally conscious approach to our resources.
