An Every Can Counts analysis of RetuRo data shows that Romania has made remarkable progress in aluminium can recycling. In July, the return rate reached 78%, while the overall recycling rate for the year remains steady at over 70%. This is more than double the level recorded two years ago, when official EU data showed Romania recycling just 35% of cans. The leading regions for aluminium can returns are Bucharest, Timiș, Constanța, Cluj and Ilfov, according to Business Review.
This rapid growth is driven by the introduction of the Deposit Return Scheme (SGR), increased private-sector investment in collection and recycling capacity, and a rising public appetite for sustainable practices. Campaigns run by sustainability-focused organisations, such as Every Can Counts’ “I CAN” art tour, have helped turn recycling from a technical process into a visible, meaningful daily habit embedded in cultural and social life.
At the same time, a recent Reveal Sustainability & SGR study shows that 21% of Romanians would recycle more if there were more educational and awareness campaigns. This underlines the importance of combining infrastructure with communication to achieve long-term behavioural change. Where sustainability is visible, recycling follows.
Aluminium, a key driver of the circular economy
Regions exposed to stronger sustainability campaigns lead the way in aluminium can recycling. Bucharest, Timiș, Cluj, Ilfov and Constanța top the national ranking for can returns, reflecting how visibility and cultural relevance can translate awareness into action.
Aluminium cans are among the most environmentally friendly forms of packaging and the most recycled drink packaging worldwide. Unlike many other materials, aluminium can be recycled endlessly without losing quality. Every recycled can saves up to 95% of the energy required to produce a new one from raw materials, and within 60 days it can be back on the shelf as a brand-new can. This makes aluminium a key driver of the circular economy and one of the most sustainable choices for both producers and consumers.
To reach its full potential, Romania needs both infrastructure and a mindset aligned with circular economy principles. Public art installations such as “I CAN”, alongside other activities run by Every Can Counts in the 21 countries where it operates, turn the abstract idea of recycling into a tangible, inspiring and shareable experience.
In Romania, the I CAN tour is designed to bring recycling into everyday life through art and public engagement, making the value of aluminium cans visible and relatable.
“I CAN” tour continues this autumn
Every Can Counts, the international awareness programme dedicated to aluminium can recycling, is expanding its presence in Romania with a nationwide tour of the “I CAN” installations. Designed by Romanian artist Sergiu Chihaia and built entirely from drink cans, these artworks transform sustainability into a visual and interactive experience, inspiring people of all ages to rethink the value of every can and to reflect on its unlimited potential.
This autumn, the artworks will be displayed at major cultural, family and business events in Bucharest:
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7 September – Kids and Family Siesta, Antipa Museum
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13–14 September – Străzi Deschise, Museum of Art area
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20 September – 2nd Life Toy Fair, hosted by Roaba de Cultură
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20–21 September – Dorobanți Street Art Festival, Beller area
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24 September – Environmental & Sustainability Summit 2025, World Trade Center
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30 September – Mind Your Business, Apollo 111
From October until the end of the year, the installations will travel beyond Bucharest to Cluj, Timișoara, Brașov and other major cities, amplifying the sustainability conversation nationwide.
Read more HERE
