Aluminium industry plays catalyst in ICMM's bold new framework for Scope 3 emission reduction

ICMM, or the International Council on Mining and Metals, has issued comprehensive guidance to empower mining and metals companies in the pursuit of impactful short, medium, and long-term targets for mitigating their Scope 3 emissions.

This initiative emphasises the utmost significance of transparency and active engagement with suppliers, customers, investors, and regulators. Such collaborative efforts are essential for expediting the reduction of emissions across aluminium's entire value chain.

How has sustainability become the most important notion within the aluminium industry? 

Within the realm of the aluminium industry, sustainability takes centre stage as companies strive to address Scope 3 emissions, a pivotal focus area representing up to 95% of a company's total emissions. This figure surpasses the average of 75% observed in other sectors.

A uniform regulatory protocol 

The guidance from ICMM delineates target-setting principles tailored specifically to the unique considerations of the mining and metals sector. It draws inspiration from prevailing regulatory frameworks in the EU, US, UK, Canada, and Australia, along with insights from the United Nations' High-Level Expert Group that deals with Net Zero Emissions Commitments of Non-State Entities.

Salient features of the ICMM guideline 

Recognising the inherent diversities in commodities and value chains, the guidance refrains from endorsing a singular methodology. Instead, it offers mining and metals-specific insights around commonly employed approaches. This approach highlights the aluminium industry's commitment to sustainability, aligning with global efforts to curb emissions and foster environmental responsibility.

ICMM CEO, in his own words 

The CEO of ICMM, Rohitesh Dhawan, asserted: "As the discussions at COP28 have made clear, each sector bears the responsibility to understand its part in the broader system and extend beyond immediate boundaries to unearth solutions to stubborn sources of emissions. The base products in almost every industry – from renewable energy and sustainable transport to construction and tech – metals and minerals are critical to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals and meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement."

"ICMM's Scope 3 Emissions Target Setting Guidance underscores ICMM members' dedication to thoroughly understanding their value chain emissions and their capacity to influence change. Collaborating with customers, suppliers, investors and regulators, ICMM members aim to curtail emissions in line with global climate goals. We urge all mining and metals companies to embrace this guidance and set their own targets for reducing Scope 3 emissions," Dhawan concluded.

Antofagasta plc CEO, who also is the Chair of ICMM and a member of ICMM's Council Climate Change Advisory Group

Iván Arriagada spoke out: "At Antofagasta, our commitment to addressing climate change permeates every aspect of our strategy and decision-making. The introduction of ICMM's Scope 3 Emissions Target Setting Guidance is an important step in enhancing transparency and catalysing collaborative efforts across the industry to curb these emissions."

"Tackling Scope 3 emissions requires a distinct approach from operational emissions directly or indirectly generated at sites. Setting targets within mining and metal value chains is a complex process, demanding a shift from direct emissions management to collaborative and integrated engagement. This includes nurturing strong relationships with suppliers and customers, even within intricate supply chains," he defined.

Is the aluminium industry ready? 

The aluminium industry's proactive engagement with sustainability measures, as reflected in adherence to Scope 3 emissions guidelines, showcases its commitment to environmental responsibility. This not only addresses the immediate impact on emissions but also positions the industry as a leader in adopting best practices for a more sustainable future.

If you are interested to know about sustainable developments in the aluminium industry, please have a look at AL Circle’s special report, Sustainability in the Global Aluminium Industry.