Qatalum achieved notable accomplishments in 2022, has a positive outlook for 2023, and is progressing towards sustainable aluminium production.
Qatar Aluminium Limited (Qatalum) was formed by QatarEnergy and Norsk Hydro in 2006, bringing proven, energy-efficient aluminium smelting technology to Qatar. Today, the company prioritises sustainable operational excellence to deliver its mission and vision. Located in Mesaieed Industrial Area, Qatar, Qatalum is committed to reducing the carbon intensity of its products and pursuing robust safety and sustainability management.
Record-setting performance in 2022
Qatalum had an exceptional year in 2022, setting out record highs in terms of financial results and operational performance. This included achieving the highest production volume in Qatalum's history, approximately 666,000 tons of aluminium products. It was also an exceptional year in terms of Health, Safety and the Environment. The company recorded its lowest-ever TRI rate and achieved its goal of zero landfill of by-products. These results are based on several iterations of Qatalum's continuous improvement program, reflecting years of hard work and dedication from its staff and contractors.
Importance of safety in the aluminium industry
Safety has been and continues to be at the core of the Company's operating philosophy, and the Company places significant efforts on developing a robust safety culture. These efforts are directed towards the Company's ultimate goal of zero safety incidents. Over the last two years, Qatalum has achieved benchmark results with a TRIR of 0.64 in 2022 and 0.32 in 2021. Qatalum's success in this area can be attributed to increased engagement within operational areas, extensive deployment of lessons learned, and growing coaching activities from dedicated HSE resources. The Company's Health, Safety, Security & Environment (HSSE) policies are supported by a robust management system framework and a sound safety governance structure, ensuring compliance with applicable legal requirements and international standards.
A key focus area for the Company is safe operations in the summer months. The Company achieved zero heat stress cases during the year by increasing its heat stress mitigation programs to meet the summer challenge. The Company's commitment to safety continues to result in stable and controlled production, a safer working environment and ingrained safety culture throughout the organization.
2023 and beyond for the global aluminium industry and Qatalum
The global aluminium industry continues to face significant uncertainty due to global macroeconomic and geopolitical tensions, including fluctuations in energy prices. It increases interest rates, which may curb economic activity and impact demand.
While many of the issues faced are out of the industry’s control, Qatalum has sought to mitigate these risks by establishing long-term relationships with its global customers and providing the highest quality products, reliable supply chain solutions and exceptional customer service.
Sustainable aluminium production and Qatalum's progress
It is critical to the industry's long-term future that it commits to sustainability. Qatalum has made this commitment as reflected in its certification by the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI), a global organization that sets and certifies sustainability standards for aluminium production.
The Company's environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategy reflects the overall ethos of continuous improvement. Qatalum seeks to drive progress in all business areas, including energy and water efficiency, waste management, lower carbon footprint, and reduced pollution. The Company has made significant strides towards producing low-carbon aluminium through recycled aluminium scrap and will continue prioritizing these initiatives.
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