Sustainability weekly recap: India’s aluminium industry targets its goal of net-zero carbon emission with $29 Billion Investment

Sustainability News - Project

The aluminium industry is making constant advancements in promoting the environmental efficiency of its production. The use of aluminium is highly encouraged for multiple end-use industries. The production of aluminium has traditionally been energy-intensive, but a growing emphasis on sustainability has prompted the industry to adopt innovative practices. A heightened focus on sustainability has spurred the industry to embrace innovative approaches. These include a shift towards renewable energy sources for production, concerted efforts in recycling, and the promotion of ethically sourced raw materials.

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Governments and top aluminium producers from different countries, global organisations, and non-profit entities have all joined hands to innovate and implement strategies to minimise the carbon footprint and bring about sustainability in the aluminium industry. Almost every region has launched dedicated projects with a common goal in mind. However, the success rate of these projects will vary depending on the region’s socio-economic climate. Not all measures are viable for all countries, companies and economies.

Here are some of the most important sustainability news from the aluminium sector:

India's aluminium sector seeks $29 billion investment for net-zero carbon goals

A recent study conducted by the Council on Energy, Environment, and Water (CEEW) highlights a significant investment need of approximately $29 billion (INR 2.2 lakh crore) in capital expenditure (CAPEX) for India's aluminium sector to achieve net-zero carbon emissions. The research emphasizes the substantial role renewable energy (RE) can play, potentially slashing 49 percent of the industry's emissions. However, the study acknowledges the intermittent availability of renewable energy as a challenge, suggesting that relying solely on RE presents its own set of hurdles.

LME calls for carbon emissions disclosure from aluminium producers by 2025

Commencing on May 1, 2024, the London Metals Exchange (LME) embarked on a consultation process requiring aluminium brand producers, eligible for delivery under its contracts, to provide carbon emissions data by March 2025. This initiative aims to align the aluminium market with the requirements of Europe's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which imposes carbon-related costs on certain imported commodities.

Starbucks in unison with Podback is poised to redesign UK’s coffee pod recycling

In an era where environmental awareness deeply influences consumer choices, Starbucks embarks on an innovative sustainability journey. Partnering with Podback, a leader in recycling initiatives, Starbucks aims to revolutionize the disposal of aluminium coffee pods in the UK. Since the launch of the Starbucks At Home range in 2019, the coffee giant has offered a unique way for fans to enjoy Starbucks flavors at home. However, despite the popularity of coffee pod consumption, the need for accessible recycling options remains unmet. Addressing this urgency, Starbucks and Podback strengthen their collaboration, expanding their efforts to include Starbucks' retail operations across the UK. This strategic partnership envisions a future characterized by mindful consumption and eco-friendly practices.

Sula’s sustainability journey reaches new high

Located in the serene Nashik Valley of India, Sula Vineyards shines as a symbol of quality, celebrated for its outstanding wines and steadfast dedication to sustainable vineyard practices. Building upon this legacy, the company has extended its commitment to sustainable packaging by introducing several of its signature wines in recyclable aluminium cans. This move underscores its pledge to embrace lighter, more environmentally friendly packaging solutions.

Century Aluminum’s vision for a ‘green aluminium’ project

Century Aluminum has proposed an ambitious plan to rejuvenate the U.S. aluminium sector in line with the Biden administration's climate objectives. However, the project's success depends on securing ample renewable energy sources, marking a pivotal moment for Kentucky's economic and environmental trajectory. The company's commitment to emission reduction and reducing dependence on fossil fuels underscores the urgent need for accessible clean energy. Kentucky faces the challenge of developing renewable energy infrastructure, critical for attracting and retaining significant industrial endeavours.

New research shows aluminium could be the key to a just climate transition

The World Benchmarking Alliance's inaugural Heavy Industries Benchmark, released on April 30, 2024, indicates that companies' efforts to reduce emissions intensity are falling short of aligning with a 1.5-degree trajectory. Insufficient investment in market-ready technologies is also noted. However, the report highlights that exemplary practices offer optimism, demonstrating the feasibility of robust transition planning across sectors. The assessment covered 91 influential companies globally, including leaders in aluminium, cement, and steel production such as Cemex, ArcelorMittal, Holcim, Chalco, and Rio Tinto.

Alle Alumínio joins ASI as the new Production and Transformation member

Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI) announced the joining of Alle Alumínio Ltda as the new Production and Transformation member. Based in Betim, Minas Gerais, Alle epitomises excellence, innovation, and dependability at its core, positioning us as the premier company in Minas Gerais for secondary aluminium alloy production.

Asistal Alüminyum joins ASI as the new Production & Transformation member

The Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI) is a collaborative effort within the aluminium sector to advance sustainability across the entire value chain. ASI certification serves as a testament to the commitment of both aluminium producers and users to uphold high standards in social responsibility, environmental stewardship, and ethical practices, ensuring mutual benefits for all involved stakeholders.

apt Holding GmbH bags ASI Performance Standard Certification

A German aluminium extrusion company apt Holding GmbH has reportedly achieved the ASI Performance Standard V3 (2022) Certification for two of its European facilities - apt Extrusions GmbH & Co. KG facility in Germany and apt Holding GmbH’s apt Extrusions B.V. facility in the Netherlands. The facility in Germany has remelting and casthouse operations for extrusion billets, four extrusion presses, an anodising plant, and mechanical machining capabilities. The Netherlands facility includes two extrusion presses, an anodising plant, and mechanical machining operations.

AC-CCSWB leads the charge: Slashes carbon emissions by 46 million pounds since 2020

Arca Continental Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages (AC-CCSWB) has significantly cut its carbon emissions since 2020, reducing them by 46 million pounds, equivalent to the emissions of nearly 18,500 cars driven for a year. The company is actively pursuing sustainability initiatives, including reducing carbon footprints and promoting the use of recycled materials like aluminium. This reduction in emissions is just one part of AC-CCSWB's broader commitment to sustainability.

RVCMC names Xpansiv to spearhead carbon credit exchange launch

RVCMC announced on April 25, 2024, its collaboration with Xpansiv, a key player in market infrastructure for the global energy transition. Xpansiv will provide technological support for the upcoming Saudi Arabian carbon credit exchange, signifying a significant stride towards RVCMC's objective of bolstering global supply and demand. This aims to facilitate crucial climate finance for regions in need, particularly within the Global South.

Edited By: Sarnali Chakraborty

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