“TAHA aims to further its contribution to Aluminium Vision 2030 by expanding the adoption of its zero-waste dross processing solutions across the industry worldwide,” Taha Pollmann, Process Manager at TAHA Resource Management GmbH

AL Circle caught up on a quick conversation with Taha Pollmann, Process Manager at TAHA Resource Management GmbH, at IBAAS-IIM 2024, held from September 25-27, 2024, where the organisation bagged the prestigious ESG Award. We are happy to share our insightful interaction where Taha Pollmann briefed us about the company’s ESG initiatives, his personal contribution to this milestone, the role of Industry 4.0 technologies in the journey, and their future plans to advance sustainability practices in consonance with Aluminium Vision 2030.  To draw some key notes from our conversation, read the interview below.

AL Circle: Congratulations on winning the ESG Award at IBAAS 2024. Please share with us the key initiatives your organisation has taken to uphold ESG principles.

Taha Pollmann: TAHA International is focused on environmentally friendly and cost-effective aluminium dross processing. Our innovative approach eliminates the use of salt and toxic chemicals, creating a more sustainable and low-energy method to recover aluminium, with a nearly complete recovery rate. This method significantly reduces waste and greenhouse gas emissions by over 80% compared to traditional methods, as proven by the University of Clausthal Zellerfeld, Germany. We also transform residual materials from the dross into valuable downstream products like fertilizers, steel slag conditioners, and flame retardants, contributing to a zero-waste goal which is the basis of our company’s mission.

AL Circle: What role have you played in your organisation to attain this sustainability milestone?

Taha Pollmann: As Head of Process Management, I strive to contribute to these milestones by ensuring the operational efficiency of dross processing, collaborating on sustainability projects, or managing compliance with environmental and safety standards. I also play a major role in the integration of innovative technologies into the company’s processes.

AL Circle: How do you want to advance your environmental, social, and governance practices to complement the Aluminium Vision 2030?

Taha Pollmann:  TAHA aims to further its contribution to Aluminium Vision 2030 by expanding the adoption of its zero-waste dross processing solutions across the industry worldwide. We also aim to develop new partnerships to scale these innovations globally, continuing to minimise environmental impact while improving resource efficiency. As an active member of the US Aluminium Association, we are continually proactively lobbying for greener aluminium within the association, which is crucial for several reasons:

a) Sustainability Leadership: Lobbying promotes the adoption of environmentally friendly practices, helping the aluminium industry transition toward a low-carbon future. This positions the industry as a leader in sustainability, aligning with global environmental goals.

b). Regulatory Alignment: Green aluminium lobbying encourages the development of industry standards that align with increasing government regulations on carbon emissions and energy efficiency. It ensures the industry is prepared for stricter environmental laws.

c) Market Demand: As consumers and businesses increasingly prioritise sustainable materials, lobbying for green aluminium ensures that industry practices evolve to meet this demand. This can open new market opportunities and drive profitability through eco-friendly certifications.

d) Innovation and Competitiveness: Lobbying efforts support innovation in green technologies, such as renewable energy use and recycling processes. This fosters competitiveness in an evolving global market where eco-friendly materials are becoming essential.

e). Reputation and Public Trust:  Advocating for greener practices improves the industry’s public image, helping build trust with consumers, investors, and stakeholders who are increasingly concerned about environmental impacts. 

AL Circle: What role have Industry 4.0 technologies played in your organisation in achieving ESG standards?

Taha Pollmann:  TAHA is well-positioned to benefit from Industry 4.0 technologies, which can enhance efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and improve predictive maintenance in their operations. By incorporating smart technologies, TAHA can further optimise its aluminium recovery process, minimise waste, and advance sustainability goals. All new versions of TAHA’s proprietary technology have Industry 4.0 as a basis. Here are four key points that summarise TAHA’s approach to Industry 4.0:

- Smart Manufacturing: Integration of advanced technologies such as AI, IoT, and robotics to create automated, data-driven production processes.

- Cyber-Physical Systems: Seamless communication between physical systems and digital networks, enabling real-time monitoring and control.

- Data Analytics and AI: Utilisation of big data and artificial intelligence to optimise processes, improve efficiency, and predict maintenance needs.

- Interconnectivity: Extensive use of IoT devices and cloud computing to link machines, systems, and humans for more efficient and flexible operations.