RUSAL partners AB InBev to debut first low-carbon aluminium beverage can

RUSSIA – RUSAL, a global leader in aluminium production, and AB InBev Efes, Russia’s largest brewing company, have unveiled the nation’s first low-carbon aluminium beverage can.

The collaboration, formalized at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), involves a leading aluminium packaging manufacturer and a major Russian retailer. 

The project spans the entire production chain, from raw material extraction to retail shelves, ensuring transparency and traceability. 

RUSAL supplied low-carbon aluminium, incorporating over 50% recycled content, which was processed into strips and transformed into cans. 

AB InBev Efes crafted a unique flavor and design for its non-alcoholic VOLT Energy drink, tailored for this eco-friendly packaging, now available in one of Russia’s largest retail chains.

“For the first time in Russia, we’ve produced beverage cans using advanced decarbonization methods, including our proprietary ALLOW INERTA technology,” said RUSAL CEO Evgenii Nikitin in a statement.

 “This achievement reflects innovative solutions from our Krasnoyarsk Aluminium Smelter and R&D teams, advancing Russia’s circular economy.”

The cans, produced under RUSAL’s ALLOW brand, utilize inert anode technology and renewable hydropower, slashing the carbon footprint by over 50% compared to traditional methods. 

A report by industry analysts notes that the aluminium achieves a reduction of nearly $4 tons of CO₂-equivalent per ton, setting a new benchmark. 

Aluminium’s infinite recyclability and high recovery rate further enhance its appeal as a sustainable packaging choice.

“We’ve set a new industry standard with this transparent, low-carbon production cycle,” said AB InBev Efes CEO Nikolay Tyurnikov. “This project unites cutting-edge technology and sustainability, supporting Russia’s 2060 Low-Carbon Development Strategy and our 2035 ESG goals.”

Recent updates highlight RUSAL’s broader sustainability efforts. In July 2025, the company strengthened its EcoVadis sustainability rating, scoring 67 points, up from 63 in 2024.

The partnership plans to expand recycled aluminium use, promote waste collection, and launch educational programs to further reduce environmental impact.

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