Visy has set a new benchmark for sustainable beverage packaging in Australia, launching a locally made aluminium can manufactured with an average of 83 per cent recycled content.
Produced at Visy's Yatala site in Queensland, the can is the result of a pioneering collaboration dubbed Re-In-Can-Ation, involving the packaging converter, brewer Stone & Wood, drinks company Lion, aluminium supplier Novelis, and mining giant Rio Tinto.
This innovation raises the bar for circular packaging solutions, with the recycled content in the can coming in nearly a quarter higher than the Australian average of 68 per cent. According to Kate Baker, Visy’s general manager Circular Economy & Sustainability, the benefits extend beyond material recovery.
“By manufacturing this can with recycled content, we’re conserving resources and keeping more waste out of landfill,” Baker said. “Even better, these cans are easily recycled after use, so you can enjoy your beer while contributing to a circular economy.”
The can’s development involved a sophisticated blend of materials, using aluminium coil made from high-recycled content and low-carbon virgin aluminium. The latter is supplied by Rio Tinto’s Bell Bay smelter in Tasmania, which uses renewable energy to reduce its carbon footprint.
Collaboration powers circular progress
Visy is no stranger to innovation, but Baker noted that this project was especially powerful due to the strength of the partnership behind it. “We’ve partnered with three other businesses to develop and manufacture this beverage can. It’s a terrific example of what we can achieve when working on innovative solutions with our suppliers, and our food and beverage customers,” she said.
The can is manufactured at Visy’s Yatala facility, using aluminium coil produced by Novelis. The coil contains a blend of low-carbon primary aluminium and recycled material, including post-consumer aluminium collected by Visy through kerbside recycling and container deposit schemes.
Brewery partner Stone & Wood brings its own sustainability credentials to the table, operating as an accredited carbon neutral brewery and sourcing materials locally wherever possible.
A measurable impact on emissions
The Re-In-Can-Ation project is expected to run for 18 months, and already its environmental impact is a talking point. Lion’s Sustainability director, Justin Merrell, highlighted the estimated 59 per cent reduction in carbon emissions associated with the new can, compared to standard alternatives.
“We are grateful to work with a supplier aligned to our ambitious decarbonisation pathway who understands the importance of collaboration to make an impact,” Merrell said. “This packaging is a great proof point for a strong circular economy and trusted partnerships.”
A call for greater transparency
In launching the pilot, the participating companies are also advocating for greater transparency across the packaging value chain. They are calling on industry peers to embrace clearer labelling and reporting on the origin of materials and the carbon intensity of production processes.
As Australia’s packaging industry continues to evolve in step with national packaging targets and consumer expectations, Visy’s Re-In-Can-Ation can demonstrates what’s possible when innovation meets intent. It’s a clear signal to the market that the future of beverage packaging is circular, collaborative, and proudly Australian made.
