3 Smelter Closures EU
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Smelter Closures in the EU
The demand for aluminium in the EU is enormous with over 7 million tons per year. Although recycling plays an important role and more than 90% of aluminium is ultimately recycled, the demand for primary metal is still high. In 1990 there were more than 36 smelters in the EU and Europe was almost self-sufficient. Today there are only 15 smelters left and Europe is dependent for more than 50% of its aluminium requirements on imports.