The decarbonisation of the manufacturing industry and its alignment with global targets for net-zero is one of the most complex global challenges, as it involves multinational stakeholders from across the value chain. To accelerate progress in the aluminium sector, the International Aluminium Institute (IAI) launched the Aluminium Forward 2030 initiative: a coalition of 25 production and 20 downstream and customer member aluminium companies in the beverage can, automotive, electrical, transport, and construction markets, committed to transforming the future of supply chains in the aluminium industry.
Part of this growing community is ElvalHalcor’s Aluminium Rolling Division (Elval). In discussion with the other leading aluminium producers, the company is working on a roadmap to enhance circularity and reduce emissions. Elval believes that engagement with the whole value chain and all stakeholders, collaborating and learning together, is the best way for the industry to achieve progress in sustainability.
The Aluminium Forward 2030 initiative is working on several projects. These include research on carbon-neutral smelting processes during aluminium production, the promotion of aluminium recycling, and implementing energy-saving measures in aluminium production facilities. The coalition is collaborating with suppliers to ensure responsible sourcing of raw materials and ethical practices, while also raising awareness about the benefits of aluminium and its role in a sustainable future.
Through the initiative, the industry addresses several challenges, such as the need for widespread adoption of circular practices to increase recycling rates and ensuring responsible sourcing throughout the supply chain while coordinating efforts among diverse stakeholders - including industrial concerns, governments, and communities. Managing these challenges will be crucial to achieve a sustainable, low-carbon aluminium industry. That is why the work of the Aluminium Forward 2030 initiative to protect and enhance the societal value of aluminium is important to ensuring a sustainable future.