ElvalHalcor, a leading Greek company in the metallurgy sector, is at the forefront of efforts to address the critical issue of secondary raw material leakage from Europe, especially concerning aluminum and copper. The company has actively participated in consultations with the European Commission and contributed to a document by the European Aluminum Association urging the EU to implement immediate trade measures to curtail the export of aluminum scrap, which currently results in severe economic impacts for the local industry. As highlighted in recent reports, the need for regulatory intervention is pressing due to the increasing export of scrap materials not just to Asian markets but also to the United States.

Recycling plays a vital role in conserving energy and resources, with ElvalHalcor stating that recycling aluminum and copper can save between 85% to 95% of the energy needed for producing primary metals. This significant energy conservation underscores the importance of establishing robust recycling frameworks within Europe to bolster local industries and reduce reliance on imported raw materials. As the demand for sustainable practices grows globally, ElvalHalcor's initiatives align with broader European goals for green growth, thus presenting an opportunity for Greece to position itself as a leader in the recycling industry.

However, the current trends in scrap leakage pose a significant challenge not only to Greece's economy but also to the overall competitiveness of European industries in the global market. The emphasis from ElvalHalcor on collaboration with Greek authorities and European institutions reflects a proactive approach to safeguard essential resources that are integral to manufacturing and production processes. Without effective measures to combat this leakage, European industries may find themselves at a disadvantage compared to counterparts from regions that manage their recycling systems more efficiently, ultimately jeopardizing the future viability of these sectors.