European aluminium industry: Leaders speak about shifting towards sustainability with innovative technical approach

The European aluminium industry is undergoing a significant transformation as sustainability becomes a top priority. With the need to reduce carbon emissions and use recyclable materials, aluminium is increasingly being used in various industrial sectors. In dedicated interviews published in our recently published e-magazine titled 'Aluminium Industry: Focus Europe', they express their outlook towards the continent's present and future in sustainable industrial practices.

Antonio Perego, Sales Manager of the Aluminium Division at FIMI Machinery, points out, "The need to reduce carbon emissions in the atmosphere and use recyclable materials will increasingly push the use of aluminium in many industrial sectors." You can find the entire interview by clicking here...

In line with this shift, the future of grain refiners and master alloys is also focused on sustainability and efficiency. Sergio Martínez, CEO, ALEASTUR Group, emphasises, "Future of grain refiners and master alloys is all about sustainability and efficiency. We are focusing on tailored grain refiners like our Supreme and 006 Ultimate since these alloys are more efficient and metallurgically cleaner, reducing environmental impact and boosting energy efficiency while improving the quality of our customers' ending products." To know more about ALEASTER's transformative journey, you can read the full interview here...

However, the industry also faces significant challenges, particularly in terms of energy costs and carbon reduction targets. Martínez notes, "Within an energy-intensive industry, rising energy costs in parallel to very ambitious carbon reduction targets and stricter environmental regulations may represent one of the biggest threats for the time being."

To address these challenges, the industry is focusing on recycling and sustainable production practices. Arild Håkonsen, Head of Technology & Sustainability, Hycast AS, said in a part of his interview, "We think that recycling of post-consumed scrap will increase in Europe, as in other regions, in the years to come. Luckily, most of the casthouse technologies Hycast provides today are suited for both primary and secondary aluminium."

The European aluminium industry also faces significant waste management challenges, particularly in handling by-products like aluminium dross and spent pot lining (SPL). Frank Pollmann, Founder, TAHA International, voices while spoken to him on this note, "The European aluminium industry faces significant waste management challenges, with the constant tightening of regulations, particularly in handling by-products like aluminium dross and spent pot lining (SPL)."

To address these challenges, industry leaders are calling for fair trade practices, investment in recycling infrastructure, and innovations in sustainable aluminium production. Nadine Boxsome, CEO, Aluminium Federation (ALFED), emphasises, "The industry is experiencing significant shifts as sustainability becomes a dominant priority. ALFED plays a crucial role in advocating for fair trade practices, urging policymakers to ensure equitable market conditions. Efforts to drive investment in recycling infrastructure and innovations in sustainable aluminium production are creating opportunities for resilience and growth."

As the aluminium industry continues to evolve, it's clear that sustainability will play a critical role in shaping its future. With industry leaders and organisations working together to address the challenges ahead, the aluminium industry is poised for a more sustainable and resilient future. To read more such in-depth interviews from the European ecosphere of aluminium, check out our latest e-magazine titled 'Aluminium Industry: Focus Europe'.