#Sustainability #London #United Kingdom #International Aluminium #Emissions

Progress in Reducing Aluminium Production Emissions

The global aluminium industry is witnessing a notable trend in reducing its greenhouse gas emissions, according to recent data shared by the International Aluminium Institute (IAI). This success marks a vital step for the sector, which has seen a reduction in emissions intensity and total emissions since their peak in 2020.

Key Highlights

• - Reduction in Emissions Intensity: The industry's emissions intensity dropped by 2.33% in 2023, resulting in an average of 10.04 tonnes of CO2 equivalent (CO2e) per tonne of aluminium produced. This is a significant improvement from previous years, as it reflects a broader commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
• - Increase in Production: Despite the rise in production, which grew by 2.75% to reach 111.2 million tonnes in 2023, total greenhouse gas emissions remained stable at approximately 1,116 million tonnes CO2e. This indicates that the industry has managed to decouple production growth from emissions growth, achieving more with less environmental impact.

Industry Insights

Miles Prosser, the Secretary-General of IAI, expressed optimism about the data, stating that it signals a turning point for the industry. "These latest figures reinforce our belief that the sector has successfully decoupled metal production growth from emissions growth," he stated. The efforts made by IAI member companies have been pivotal, showcasing their ability to scale production while maintaining responsible emission levels.

However, this positive trend is countered by the recognition that substantial work remains. The industry faces ongoing challenges in significantly lowering emissions. The stable emissions levels reported in 2023 serve as a reminder of the immense effort required to continue improving.

Ongoing Initiatives and Future Goals

To drive the necessary changes, the aluminium industry is heavily investing in initiatives aimed at emission reduction throughout the entire value chain. This includes innovations in production processes and advancements in recycling practices. These investments are crucial as industries like clean energy, electric vehicles, and sustainable packaging increasingly rely on aluminium, creating a significant demand for the material.

The emissions intensity of production, which encompasses both primary metal production and recycling, has seen a decline from 10.28 tonnes CO2e per tonne in 2022 to the current 10.04 tonnes CO2e. Furthermore, emissions from primary aluminium production have decreased from 15.1 million tonnes CO2e per tonne in 2022 to 14.8 tonnes CO2e in 2023.

Conclusion

The trajectory of the global aluminium sector reflects a broader commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development. With the increasing demand for aluminium across various sectors, continued focus on emission reduction is essential. The industry's proactive approach demonstrates its potential to lead in the transition toward a more sustainable future. As environmental considerations become more pressing, the aluminium sector is poised to play a crucial role in helping reduce carbon footprints globally.

This progress, while commendable, also highlights the need for ongoing efforts, partnerships, and innovations to address climate change challenges, ensuring a sustainable path forward for aluminium production worldwide.