Sustainability weekly recap: Alba launches EternAl, the new low-carbon aluminium product line with 30% and 15% recycled content

The aluminium industry is experiencing significant growth, with sustainability playing a pivotal role in shaping its trajectory. Historically, aluminium production has been energy-intensive, but a shifting focus towards sustainability has spurred the adoption of innovative practices. This includes a drive towards renewable energy sources, increased emphasis on recycling initiatives, and the promotion of responsible sourcing for raw materials. 

This week, the sustainability sector of the global aluminium industry witnessed many significant incidents. For example, Alba introduced a new low-carbon aluminium product line, followed by Moddex Group's sustainable shift to Capral's LocAl® Green lower-carbon aluminium. The industry also witnessed many new appointments and shifts to sustainability. This shows that the industry is making its shift towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly environment.  

Moreover, technological advancements drive more energy-efficient smelting methods, reducing the industry's environmental impact. These sustainability efforts are making the industry greener and more responsible and bolstering its long-term viability amidst global environmental challenges.  Here are some key sustainability developments within the aluminium sector:

Alba unveils new low-carbon aluminium product line EternAl

Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. (Alba) recently unveiled its latest innovation in sustainable aluminium production: the EternAl product line. Comprising two variants, EternAl-30 and EternAl-15, these products incorporate 30% and 15% recycled content, respectively. This marks a significant step forward for Alba in its commitment to environmental stewardship and promoting a circular economy. The introduction of EternAl underscores Alba's dedication to meeting the increasing global demand for low-carbon aluminium while reducing its carbon footprint.

Moddex Group's sustainable shift to Capral's LocAl®

Moddex Group Australia, a prominent manufacturer specialising in pre-fabricated handrail and balustrade systems, has taken a decisive step towards sustainability by shifting to Capral's LocAl® Green lower-carbon aluminium. This strategic move emphasises Moddex's dedication to environmental stewardship and aligns with the crucial objective of reducing carbon emissions in construction and infrastructure projects.

Leading the way: Alcoa Australia's Forest Research Centre takes root

Alcoa Australia is inaugurating a specialised research centre to reinforce its longstanding commitment to preserving, rejuvenating, and advancing understanding of the forest ecosystem. The centre will focus on regions within the Northern Jarrah Forest in Western Australia's Darling Range impacted by Alcoa's bauxite mining operations. Over the next five years, the Forest Research Centre will benefit from $9.9 million in research funding. This initiative underscores Alcoa's dedication to responsible environmental stewardship and knowledge advancement.

Vedanta’s Jharsuguda aluminium smelter achieves the ASI Chain of Custody (CoC) Standard V2 Certification

Vedanta Limited's Aluminium Business in Jharsuguda, Odisha, India, has achieved the ASI Chain of Custody (CoC) Standard V2 (2022) Certification for its smelter situated in the Special Economic Zone. This certification is a noteworthy milestone for Vedanta, whose operations in Jharsuguda include two smelters and three casthouses, alongside robust power generation facilities totalling 3615 MW. With an impressive annual smelting capacity of 1.8 million tonnes, this facility is one of the largest single-location aluminium plants worldwide.

Mubadala Energy's latest gas strike signals transformation in Southeast Asia's energy dynamics

Mubadala Energy, an Abu Dhabi-based international energy company with a presence in 11 countries and responsibilities over operations at the South Andaman Gross Split PSC, has announced a significant gas find originating from the Tangkulo-1 Exploration well. Located around 65 kilometres off the coast of North Sumatra, Indonesia, this discovery represents a notable advancement in the region's energy exploration endeavours.

Alba CEO Ali Al Baqali gets appointed as IAI Chair succeeding Satish Pai

Ali Al Baqali, CEO of Aluminium Bahrain BSC (Alba), has been appointed as the new Chair of the International Aluminium Institute (IAI), succeeding Satish Pai of Hindalco Industries. Al Baqali brings a wealth of experience from his tenure at Alba, one of the world’s largest aluminium smelters.

Shandong Hongqiao clinches the Top 100 spot for graduate employment opportunities in the region

Shandong Hongqiao, a subsidiary of China Hongqiao Group, the world's leading aluminium producer, has earned distinction as one of the top 100 private enterprises highly sought by college graduates for employment in Shandong Province. This recognition reflects the company's strategic recruitment practices, extensive vocational training programs, and dedication to nurturing talent.

BALCO’s fly ash collaboration with Shree Cement 

Bharat Aluminium Company Limited (BALCO), a key player in India’s aluminium sector, has entered into a strategic partnership with Shree Cement Limited. This collaboration is poised to transform cement manufacturing by leveraging the potential of fly ash, a by-product known for its significant environmental advantages.

Eivind Kallevik charts path to a greener aluminium future for Hydro by 2030

Norsk Hydro, the Norwegian titan in aluminium and energy, has named Eivind Kallevik its new President and CEO. Eivind assumed his position on May 13, revealing his strategy to accelerate Hydro's initiative to lead the charge towards sustainable aluminium production. He aims to achieve substantial progress by 2030 by strategically utilising renewable energy sources.