YKK AP America introduced the BetterBillet, a billet comprised of recycled aluminum scrap and aluminum sourced from low carbon suppliers. Fully produced in the U.S., BetterBillet represents an advancement in YKK AP’s sustainability efforts, moving away from fossil-fuel-produced aluminum while maintaining quality and consistency.
“BetterBillet is a manifestation of our deep commitment to sustainability, quality and innovation,” says Raymond Shelton, chief sustainability officer, YKK AP America Inc. “By taking full control of our production processes, we’re reducing environmental impact and delivering superior materials that meet the evolving needs of our customers."
Sustainability-focused
The BetterBillet will move the company’s sustainability efforts forward with two core benefits:
- Low carbon sourcing: YKK AP uses vertically integrated manufacturing processes, melting and casting its own aluminum billets in-house. This enables the company to develop the BetterBillet with an average of 40% recycled aluminum along with primary aluminum of which at least 80% is purchased from low-carbon, North American suppliers.
- Full control of manufacturing and production processes: YKK AP maintains tighter control of alloy chemical composition than industry standards, providing superior mechanical properties and consistent anodized color finishes.
BetterBillet also plays a pivotal role in YKK AP’s “Evolution 2030” initiative, announced in 2023. This program focuses on reducing environmental impact through carbon reduction, creating new value for customers through high-quality, sustainable offerings, and prioritizing employee well-being.
As part of its purpose to Build a Better Society, YKK AP has now integrated BetterBillet into all of its commercial products in the U.S. Plans to offer BetterBillet to the broader manufacturing community are forthcoming.
