"Regulatory pressure and increasing environmental requirements are opening up many opportunities for us," Romain Girbal, co-founder of IB2

Romain Girbal, a seasoned entrepreneur and business developer, has over 20 years of experience across various industries. A graduate of HEC Paris with a specialisation in Business Law and Management, Romain is known for his strategic vision and leadership. In 2013, he co-founded Alliance Minière Responsable (AMR), a French bauxite mining company operating in the Republic of Guinea, where he played a pivotal role in fostering responsible and sustainable mining practices. As a member of the board at IB2 and a business development expert, Romain continues to contribute his expertise to various ventures, driving innovation and growth. 

In this interview, Mr Girbal has brought forth the present and future strategies of the company in combatting all odds and steering forward the development of downstream aluminium industry.

AL Circle: How does IB2 technology address environmental challenges in alumina production?

Romain Girbal: IB2 offers a sustainable alternative to traditional alumina refining by reducing caustic soda consumption by 80 per cent and CO₂ emissions by 40 per cent. Thanks to our process developed by Yves Occello, co-founder of IB2 and internationally renowned chemist, we exploit lower-quality bauxite deposits, allowing refineries to reduce their dependence on imports and improve their carbon footprint. In addition, we reduce waste production by valorising tobermorite, a co-product used in the cement industry.

AL Circle: How does your green technology differ from conventional processes? Can you explain your approach to the circular economy and its business benefits?

Romain Girbal: Unlike conventional methods, our technology optimises bauxite extraction while significantly reducing toxic waste, such as red mud. In addition to improving process efficiency, we actively contribute to the circular economy by transforming this waste into a product sought after by the cement industry. The circular economy is at the heart of our model. We transform a problematic industrial by-product into a valuable resource for other industries. This allows refineries to reduce their carbon footprint while generating a new revenue stream, strengthening their profitability and environmental commitment.

AL Circle: What role does sustainability play in IB2’s long-term strategy and how do you measure your success? What was the most significant milestone in IB2’s journey?

Romain Girbal: Sustainability is not a constraint but a strategic lever. We measure our impact through several indicators: waste reduction, lower CO₂ emissions and the growing adoption of our process by manufacturers. IB2's success is also measured by the interest of investors and governments in our solutions.

Our partnership with Liulin Senze Coal Aluminium in China has marked a turning point. This pilot project, which will culminate in June 2025 with the opening of our first plant in Shanxi, confirms the industrial viability of our process. This is a major step forward that allows us to be closely monitored by players in the sector.

AL Circle: What are the main market challenges and opportunities for IB2?

Romain Girbal: Regulatory pressure and increasing environmental requirements are opening up many opportunities for us. In addition, the increasing costs of importing bauxite are increasing interest in local and more sustainable solutions.

AL Circle: How does IB2 maintain its technological edge and promote innovation?

Romain Girbal: We work closely with experts and research laboratories to continually improve our process. Our capacity for innovation is also based on a committed team and leadership that encourages experimentation and adaptation to new industrial requirements.

AL Circle: What are your target markets for IB2 expansion?

Romain Girbal: We focus on China, but we also have projects in Saudi Arabia, Kazakhstan and Turkey.

AL Circle: How do you perceive your leadership to foster innovation and collaboration within the company?

Romain Girbal: I believe in management based on transparency and collective ambition. At IB2, we give teams the space to propose ideas and test new approaches. We have built a culture where innovation is encouraged and where every employee understands the importance of our mission.