Sure, we all love the fizzy satisfaction of cracking open a cold soda. But at OLIPOP, we believe what your drink comes in matters just as much as what’s inside. That’s why OLIPOP comes in aluminum cans, an option designed to be recycled again and again, making them one of the most sustainable single‑use beverage packaging options available today.  

Here’s why aluminum is our material of choice, and why recycling is such an important part of the equation. 

Why We Use Aluminum 

Here are a few reasons why we choose aluminum for our packaging:  

Infinitely Recyclable 

Aluminum can be recycled repeatedly without losing its quality. [1] Nearly 75% of all aluminum ever produced is still in use today. [2] And with strong recycling rates, aluminum avoids many of the downfalls of single‑use plastic and glass. 

Lower Energy Use 

Recycling aluminum saves a huge amount of energy. Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG) associated with aluminum cans are significantly lower than plastic and glass bottles for single-use carbonated beverages, especially when the cans are made from recycled materials. Making aluminum cans from recycled materials uses a whopping 95% less energy than producing them from raw bauxite ore. [1]  

While producing aluminum from raw bauxite ore is energy-intensive, the high recyclability of aluminum means that most cans today are made primarily from recycled content, dramatically reducing the overall environmental impact. 

Lower Transportation Impact 

Aluminum cans weigh less than other materials, making transportation cheaper and more eco-friendly. This lighter packaging helps reduce fuel usage and emissions across our supply chain. 

Durable, Safe & Waste-Reducing 

Unlike fragile glass bottles, aluminum cans are also less likely to break during transportation and handling. This means:  

• Less product loss  
• Fewer broken shipments 
• Less need for excess packaging 

Plus, aluminum cans used in the U.S. beverage industry are lined with food‑safe coatings that comply with FDA regulations, preventing leaching or contamination. 

The Importance of Recycling 

While it’s highly recyclable, improper disposal results in resource loss and environmental harm. That’s why we at OLIPOP continue to prioritize consumer education around recycling and clear labeling with How2Recycle labels on our packaging. 

Need help recycling? Check out Earth 911, North America's most extensive recycling database. Simply enter the material you are trying to recycle along with your zip code and click search to find recycling centers near you. 

Aluminum in OLIPOP: The Takeaway 

Plastic, glass, and aluminum all impact the planet, but recycled aluminum stands out for its efficiency, recyclability, and dramatically lower carbon footprint. When made from recycled material, aluminum uses significantly less energy and produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions. That’s why we use aluminum at OLIPOP, and why we’re committed to helping improve recycling rates through clear labeling, consumer education, and partnerships that support a more circular economy. 

Sources 

1. Brock, A., & Williams, I. (2020, November 17). Ranked: the environmental impact of five different soft drink containers. The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/ranked-the-environmental-impact-of-five-different-soft-drink-containers-149642
   
2. Infinitely Recyclable. (2021). Aluminum Association. https://www.aluminum.org/Recycling

Meet our Expert This article is reviewed by Elric Centers.  Elric is our Sustainability Manager here at OLIPOP. He's been a pivotal figure in our journey from day one. Born in Germany and raised in Michigan, Elric’s formative years were deeply influenced by the educational philosophies of his parents, who were dedicated educators at the Waldorf School. At 15, a move to California marked the beginning of an era where Elric’s true passions flourished. Immersed in a world of rhythmic beats as a drummer and enlivened by the vibrant festival scene, he eventually found his anchor in the Bay Area—his constant amidst travels and adventures. Venturing into the food and beverage sector, Elric's entrepreneurial journey blossomed with the inception of his own kombucha brand and leadership at a chocolate factory, blending his business acumen with a passion for wellness. His path eventually converged with OLIPOP, where he has donned various hats, leading to his current role spearheading our sustainability endeavors. Elric's vision of wellness transcends personal health, embracing a holistic view that encompasses communal well-being. He perceives business as a conduit for global transformation, championing sustainability not merely as an initiative but as a core philosophy. At OLIPOP, Elric is dedicated to leveraging this platform to foster a world where sustainability and wellness go hand in hand, mirroring his life’s work in promoting practices that benefit both people and the planet.