Novelis has commenced operations at its new aluminium recycling centre in Ulsan, South Korea, marking a key milestone in its efforts to expand circular production capabilities in Asia. The facility is designed to process up to 100,000 tons of scrap annually, including used beverage cans, automotive components, and industrial aluminium, to produce low-carbon sheet ingot.
The $65 million project, launched in 2022, is part of Novelis’ investment in Ulsan Aluminum—a rolled aluminium joint venture with Japan’s Kobe Steel. With the addition of the Ulsan facility, Novelis’ total recycling capacity in South Korea now stands at 470,000 tons per year, including output from its aluminium can recycling plant in Yeongju, North Gyeongsang Province.
The company estimates that the Ulsan site will reduce carbon emissions by 420,000 tons annually, equivalent to the absorption capacity of roughly 19 million trees. Aluminium recycling typically reduces emissions by up to 95% compared to primary aluminium production, while maintaining material quality.
Novelis expects the new plant to strengthen ties with South Korean industries seeking sustainable materials for packaging, automotive, and other applications. The facility supports the company’s broader strategy to reduce its carbon footprint and advance a circular economy in the metals sector.
