Aluminium recycling push gains momentum in Oman

MUSCAT: The third Aluminium Scrap Recycling Symposium has called for faster progress in building an integrated recycling ecosystem, underscoring its role in advancing circular economy ambitions in the Sultanate of Oman.
Organised by Sohar Aluminium in cooperation with the Environment Authority, the event brought together policymakers, industry leaders and technical experts to examine pathways for strengthening aluminium recycling across the value chain.
Held under the auspices of Dr Abdullah bin Ali al Amri, Chairman of the Environment Authority, the symposium highlighted the need for coordinated action to improve collection, processing and reuse of aluminium scrap.
Engineer Said bin Mohammed al Masoudi, CEO of Sohar Aluminium, said the sector has recorded encouraging progress, with the company recycling more than 8,000 tonnes of aluminium scrap to date. He noted that these efforts have contributed to enhancing both economic efficiency and environmental performance.
Al Masoudi emphasised that developing a robust recycling ecosystem requires collective engagement rather than isolated initiatives. He pointed out that an effective system must integrate all stages of the value chain — from collection and logistics to advanced processing and manufacturing — supported by strong collaboration between stakeholders.
He also called for more transparent dialogue on industry challenges and solutions, stressing the importance of maximising the value of national resources through partnerships involving regulators, service providers and end users.
The symposium featured contributions from regional and local experts, focusing on aligning international best practices with Oman’s national priorities. Discussions centred on regulatory frameworks, technological innovation and cross-sector collaboration as key enablers of a more efficient and sustainable recycling sector.
Working papers presented during the event explored global and regional trends in aluminium scrap recycling, as well as the importance of retaining scrap within domestic markets to capture greater economic value. Other topics included quality standards, safety requirements and the technical capabilities needed to support industry growth.
Participants also examined the investment potential of the recycling sector, highlighting opportunities for value creation and industrial diversification. Discussions underscored the importance of strengthening linkages between policy, industry and supporting institutions to accelerate sector development.
A key focus of the sessions was the establishment of a fully integrated recycling value chain in Oman, alongside measures to address operational and regulatory challenges that may hinder expansion. Speakers noted that aluminium, as a high-value and energy-efficient recyclable material, offers strong prospects for positioning Oman as a regional hub for circular economy practices.
The symposium comes as Oman advances its sustainability agenda in line with Oman Vision 2040, with aluminium recycling seen as a critical component in reducing environmental impact while supporting economic diversification.
Since 2024, a series of workshops and initiatives led by Sohar Aluminium and its partners have delivered measurable outcomes. By the end of 2025, aluminium scrap recycling in Oman had increased by 288 per cent compared to 2024 levels, supported by regulatory enhancements introduced in March 2025.
These gains reflect growing national momentum towards improving resource efficiency and embedding circular economy principles across key industrial sectors. — ONA