Dirty Scrap The Aluminum Podcast

In this episode of Dirty Scrap Podcast, we sit down with Scott Breen, President of the Can Manufacturers Institute (CMI), the organization representing U.S. metal can manufacturers and their suppliers.Scott leads CMI’s industry strategy, serves as the chief spokesperson with policymakers and media, and oversees the organization’s culture and operations. He also brings a unique perspective from his role as Chair of The Recycling Partnership’s Board of Directors, and from his previous work at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and NOAA.In this conversation, we explore:Why the U.S. aluminum can recycling rate remains around 43%Why fixing sorting alone won’t get us to 70–90% recyclingThe role of deposit return systems and infrastructureHow fragmented recycling programs limit performanceWhat truly scales in aluminum circularity—and what doesn’tThis episode is especially relevant for professionals in:aluminum recycling, scrap processing, MRF operations, sustainability strategy, and industrial manufacturing.🎧 Listen to understand what’s really holding recycling back—and what could finally move the needle This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this episode of the Dirty Scrap Podcast, we sit down with Nick from High Temperature Systems to discuss what’s really happening on the foundry floor in 2025.We cover:Why tariffs didn’t translate into new investmentSupply chain disruptions and rising lead timesThe gap between automation and operational know-howSafety risks tied to preheating, training, and process disciplineA practical conversation for anyone working with molten metal, recycling, or foundry operations.🎧 Listen, learn, and stay sharp. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this conversation, Aldo shares more than 20 years of experience across operations, commercial strategy, logistics, and global metal trading. We explore how the industry is evolving and what new generations need to know as they enter the field.Topics CoveredImmigration, workforce shortages & generational knowledge lossWhy younger talent is not entering manufacturing — and how to fix itHow tariffs and Section 232 are reshaping risk, pricing, and investmentGlobal competition: What Asia & Europe do differentlyTechnology adoption and why the U.S. is behindRecycling rates: Why the U.S. lags and what’s needed to improveMarket uncertainty and pricing strategy in volatile timesThe real challenges recyclers face in sourcing manpowerVertical integration and why aluminum is leading over copperHow small & mid-size yards can scale using new commercial modelsThe role of mentorship, conferences, and knowledge-sharing in the next decadeGuestAldo — Founder of The Metal Agency, with extensive background in operations, sourcing, international trading, and commercial optimization in the non-ferrous sector.Why This Episode MattersIf you're in metals, manufacturing, recycling, logistics, or plant operations, this conversation gives you actionable clarity on where the industry is heading and what leaders need to prepare for. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

Guest: Amy Hinton, North American Scrap Editor — FastmarketsHost: Julio Quintero, Dirty Scrap PodcastTopics discussed:Tariffs and their real impact on U.S. producers and recyclersThe nearshoring dilemma: cost, energy, and complianceTransparency vs. complexity in the new trade environmentLabor and energy challenges for aluminum smeltersThe evolving U.S.–Mexico–Canada (USMCA) trade dynamicMarket volatility and the role of Fastmarkets in providing clarityTakeaway:👉 The metals market is being reshaped by tariffs, transparency, and turbulence — and those who adapt fastest will define the next decade of U.S. recycling and production. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this episode of Dirty Scrap, host Julio Quintero sits down with Beatriz Landa, VP of Metal Procurement & Planning at Novelis, to dive deep into the challenges and opportunities shaping the aluminum industry.From her unique journey — professional soccer player, lawyer, McKinsey consultant, and now a senior executive at Novelis — to leading strategies that aim for 75% recycled content by 2030, Beatriz shares an inspiring perspective on leadership, sustainability, and industry transformation.🔑 What you’ll learn in this episode:How the aluminum market shifted from a seller’s to a buyer’s market in just months.Why tariffs and policy uncertainty in Washington are reshaping supply chains.The role of scrap flexibility and technology in boosting recycling efficiency.Novelis’ long-term strategy: 75% recycled content and <3t CO₂ per ton by 2030.The story behind Women in Novelis and how diversity initiatives are changing plant culture.Insights on recycling rates: Why Europe hits 90–95% UBC recovery while the U.S. lags at 45–50%.Why collaboration between primary and secondary aluminum is essential for the industry’s future.✨ Beatriz also delivers a strong message to women in manufacturing: “This industry is exciting, growing, and sustainable — we need more women to join us.” This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

What will the U.S.–Canada relationship look like in 2025?Aluminum has become the real thermometer of this bilateral relationship:📉 Trade tensions with tariffs ranging from 25% to 50%⚡ A shared climate agenda focused on recycling and decarbonization🏭 Direct impact on automotive, aerospace, construction, and packaging🔧 Technological opportunities: induction furnaces, continuous billet casting, and scrap drying/decoating systemsIn this video we explore:The interdependence of aluminum trade between the U.S. and CanadaThe effects of Section 232 and retaliatory measuresHow sustainability and carbon policies could unite both nationsThe emerging opportunities for industry and technology providers👉 Subscribe for more insights on the future of aluminum, recycling, and manufacturing in North America.💬 Share your thoughts in the comments: are we facing a long-term trade war, or just another chapter in the story of two inevitable allies?#Aluminum #USCanada #Recycling #Manufacturing #Trade This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

Dirty Scrap Podcast 🎙️ | The Long Way HomeIn this episode, we dive into The Long Way Home — a project that goes beyond aluminum and recycling to explore the human side of sustainability.🌍 Coming from Colombia, where poverty is a daily reality, I connect my personal story with the global challenges of equity, industry, and environmental responsibility.We talk about:♻️ Why sustainability in aluminum is also a social issue🚀 How recycling and circular economy projects expand into new industries🌐 The role of purpose-driven initiatives like The Long Way Home in shaping a better future👉 Don’t miss this conversation about aluminum, recycling, and the deeper meaning of sustainability.💬 Share your thoughts in the comments — how do you see the link between industry and social impact?#DirtyScrapPodcast #TheLongWayHome #Aluminum #Recycling #Sustainability #CircularEconomyhttps://lwhome.org/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this episode, Chuck Johnson joins us to break down the current state of U.S. aluminum tariff policies and their impact across the supply chain — from producers and recyclers to manufacturers and end users.We cover:– Why aluminum tariffs continue to shape the market– How trade policy decisions influence domestic capacity– The challenges and opportunities facing U.S. aluminum– What could change in the coming weeksIf you're in the aluminum industry or simply want to understand how trade policy affects critical materials, this conversation offers timely insights. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

If you're in the aluminum game, ALUMINUM USA is where you need to be. Taking place May 28-29 in Nashville, TN, this is the premier industry event is bringing together producers, fabricators, suppliers, and innovators from across the entire value chain. Whether you're dealing in scrap, smelting, or high-tech applications, this is your chance to network, learn, and stay ahead of the curve. ALUMINUM USA is where the future of aluminum takes shape. Get a FREE ticket ($100 value) by visiting 🎁aluminumusa2025.com/freeticket This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this special episode of the Dirty Scrap Podcast, we talk with Robin Wiener, President of REMA (formerly ISRI), about the impact of global transformation on recycling, tariff policies, trade challenges, and strengthening international relationships. 🌎♻️An essential conversation to understand where the industry is heading and how we can build a more resilient and sustainable future. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this insightful conversation, Julio Quintero sits down with Chuck Johnson, President of the Aluminum Association USA, to explore the current landscape and future of the aluminum industry. Together, they dive deep into the global challenges shaping the sector—trade policies, energy demands, and sustainability trends—and discuss how the U.S. aluminum industry is adapting and preparing for what's next. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this episode of Dirty Scrap Podcast, I talk with Judith Jenny, Managing Director of Austin AI Europe, about how LIPS technology is transforming aluminum recycling. 🛠️ Judith shares insights into why LIPS outperforms XRF and how it’s driving efficiency, sustainability, and profitability in the recycling industry. 🌍We also dive into her professional journey and the groundbreaking innovations Austin AI is spearheading. If you’re curious about how this technology is bridging the gap between scrap yards and foundries, this episode is a must-watch! 💡 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

Avishai, Co-founder and CEO of Bamboozle, is redefining the landscape of sustainability and home innovation. Through his visionary leadership, Bamboozle has transformed the way we view domestic composting with its sleek and functional countertop bin. Merging culinary artistry, design, technology, and science, Avishai is committed to finding harmony between sustainability and modern consumerism. By pioneering cutting-edge plant-based materials, he is making recycling and biodegradability not just an option, but an accessible and stylish reality for households worldwide. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this episode of Dirty Scrap, I talk with Matts Larsson, founder of the Global Energy Transformation Institute, about the challenges and opportunities in the shift toward sustainability and electrification. We explore key topics such as the role of electric vehicles (EVs), the need for updated energy infrastructure, and how the circular economy can support sustainable development. Matts also shares his perspective on the influence of China in battery production and the importance of thoughtful planning in achieving these goals. A straightforward discussion on the changes shaping the future of industries This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this episode of Dirty Scrap Podcast, we sit down with the CEO of Regenx to explore the shift from traditional mining to sustainable practices and green technologies. Learn how Regenx is driving the circular economy by recycling critical metals like platinum and palladium from catalytic converters, reducing CO2 emissions, and optimizing resources. Discover insights on scaling eco-friendly processes, supply chain challenges, and how the future of recycling impacts industries beyond just metals. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

In this episode of the Dirty Scrap Podcast, we sit down with Ryan Schermerhorn, an attorney specializing in intellectual property and climate change. We discuss how sustainability trends are shaping industries across North America, from recycling to green tech innovation. Ryan shares insights on the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office’s Climate Change Mitigation Pilot Program, which accelerates patents for eco-friendly technologies, and how companies can leverage intellectual property to drive sustainable change. Tune in for expert advice on protecting innovations that reduce CO2 emissions and explore how clean technology is transforming industries like aluminum recycling, energy efficiency, and more! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

This video covers the potential effects of relaxed CO2 regulations and new tariffs on Chinese EVs and aluminum on the U.S. aluminum recycling industry This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com

Traditionally, primary casthouses solidified the molten primary aluminum from the potlines into ingot or sow, or produced primary alloy ingots, billets or slabs.  Secondary casthouses served to convert scrap into secondary aluminum ingots, billets, or slabs. Today, the global trend to sustainability, circular economy - and therefore maximizing recycling and minimizing carbon footprint, has led to almost every casthouse needing to integrate scrap into its production mix. Secondary casthouses no longer solely produce higher impurity secondary alloys, but also high-quality ingots, billets and slabs with highest possible recycling content. This trend is changing the way we are recycling, the way we sort and treat scrap, and the way modern secondary casthouses need to be designed with energy efficiency, optimum recovery and metal quality in the focus. We are working on improving ideally closed-loop recycling where possible, and best possible integration of recycling content in aluminum products. Beside the input material, the melting step is the most energy and carbon intensive process in a secondary casthouse. Selecting the right furnace technology for each scrap type and available energy is therefore vital for maximizing recoveries and minimizing energy usage and carbon footprint. Numerous R&D projects are under way to improve scrap sorting and treatment, energy efficiency and recovery, up-cycling scrap into high quality alloys, and to develop alloys that can be made from the highest possible (ideally post-consumer) recycling content This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit julioquintero.substack.com