Recycling Gains Meaning When the Loop Closes Quickly

Returns of metal packaging reached 28.8%, up from 18.7% at the system's launch, while plastic's share fell from 61% to 51% and glass held steady at around 20%. The growth is driven by younger consumers drawn to the can's design flexibility and infinite recyclability, as well as a widening range of canned beverages and brand sustainability efforts. Internationally, an April 2026 McKinsey analysis noted steady growth in metal packaging, and the aluminium can is recycled indefinitely, returning to shelves in as little as 60 days while saving up to 95% of energy versus new production. The can's surface offers a continuous canvas for designers, with 81% of Gen Z consumers having tried a product due to its packaging and 63% repeating purchases for that reason, per a 2024 Ad Age article.