December 2024
International Organisation of Aluminium Aerosol Container Manufacturers
Commentary
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Interview with Seifeldin Raslan Mohamed, New Secretary General of AEROBAL

The Perspective of Aluminum Aerosol Cans

Congratulations on your appointment as Secretary General of AEROBAL, Mr. Raslan. With the aerosol industry evolving rapidly, what are your immediate goals for the association?

Seifeldin Raslan Mohamed: Thank you! My focus is on guiding AEROBAL’s members through this period of regulatory and market evolution while honoring the strong foundation laid by my predecessor, Gregor Spengler. A key priority for the industry is advancing a robust Design for Recycling (D4R) framework, which would give aerosol can manufacturers the opportunity to comply with the continuously increasing sustainability demands. The proposed EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) already points toward standardized recycling-focused design requirements, though details are yet to be finalized through EU Commission delegated acts. Currently, a consortium of packaging associations, in partnership with the Cyclos HTP Institute, is conducting a study to establish clear design for recycling guidelines across various aluminum packaging types, with AEROBAL representing the aluminium aerosol cans. This research will provide a solid, science-backed basis for our ongoing discussions with European standardization and legislative bodies, helping us champion sustainable practices while supporting industry resilience and competitiveness as these changes unfold.

The aluminum aerosol industry has shown positive growth recently. What’s driving this, and do you foresee continued expansion?

Seifeldin Raslan Mohamed: The growth of aluminum aerosol cans is driven not only by consumer demand in personal care and pharmaceuticals but also by the increasing emphasis on sustainability. As we strive to meet consumer expectations and regulatory demands, there's a significant push to incorporate more recycled content in aluminum aerosol cans. Scrap utilization in production, particularly using pre- and post-consumer recycled materials, can lower energy consumption and reduce environmental impact, aligning with the sustainability goals of both customers and regulators. While there are challenges in sourcing high-quality scrap materials, the industry's ability to innovate and adapt has allowed us to maintain strong growth, and I believe this will continue as demand for sustainable packaging solutions rises.

What challenges do you see on the horizon for the industry, and how can AEROBAL address them?

Seifeldin Raslan Mohamed: The aluminum aerosol industry faces a range of challenges as it navigates an increasingly complex landscape. While sustainability is a key focus, the pace of regulatory changes and the need for innovative solutions to meet these demands are ongoing challenges. In addition, there are supply chain dynamics, such as securing high-quality recycled materials, that need to be managed effectively. AEROBAL's role is to provide a platform for collaboration, ensuring that our members are informed, engaged, and well-prepared to tackle these challenges. By fostering dialogue between stakeholders and advocating for balanced solutions, AEROBAL can help ensure the industry remains resilient and competitive in a rapidly evolving market.

In addition to regulatory changes, how do you see the role of technological innovation in the future of aluminum aerosol packaging?

Seifeldin Raslan Mohamed: Technological innovation is critical in helping the aluminum aerosol industry meet sustainability expectations while improving product efficiency. We are seeing advancements in lightweighting, which reduces material use and lowers transportation emissions. In addition, digital printing technologies allow for more personalized and dynamic packaging solutions. Beyond production technologies, innovations in scrap sorting and processing are vital for maximizing the recycled content in aerosol cans. New technologies can help us process recycled aluminum more efficiently and enable the use of scrap that might otherwise be unsuitable for manufacturing aerosol cans. By embracing these innovations, the industry will continue to evolve in line with sustainability goals while ensuring that product integrity and safety remain uncompromised.

With sustainability at the forefront, what are the benefits of aluminum for aerosol products?

Seifeldin Raslan Mohamed: Aluminum is an exceptional material for aerosol products. Its infinite recyclability without quality loss makes it a sustainable choice, and it’s also lightweight and durable, offering protection for the contents. Aluminum aerosol cans support sophisticated designs, with seamless surfaces that accommodate high-resolution graphics, enabling brands to convey quality and aesthetics effectively. The ongoing improvements in recyclability, combined with advancements in design, ensure that aluminum remains a leading choice for brands that prioritize sustainability. Moreover, using recycled aluminum further lowers the environmental footprint, which is an essential aspect of meeting the expectations of both consumers and regulators.

Looking ahead, what would success look like for AEROBAL under your leadership?

Seifeldin Raslan Mohamed: A successful tenure for me would mean AEROBAL becoming an even stronger advocate for the aluminum aerosol sector, especially as we work to meet the new regulatory standards. My goal is to lead the industry in actively promoting the benefits of aluminum aerosol cans, particularly their sustainability attributes, to regulatory bodies, end-users, and other stakeholders. I envision AEROBAL driving meaningful progress in recyclability, material standards, and global awareness of our industry’s contributions to sustainability. Ultimately, my goal is for AEROBAL to be seen as a key player in shaping a sustainable, innovative future for the sector.

Thank you, Mr. Raslan, for sharing your insights. We look forward to following AEROBAL’s continued evolution.

Seifeldin Raslan Mohamed: Thank you for the opportunity! I’m excited to work closely with our members and partners to achieve these goals, and I look forward to a successful journey with AEROBAL.