Trade group European Aluminium Association released its mid-term review of its Sustainability Roadmap Towards 2025 this week, detailing the progress made and work yet to be completed on the task of achieving sustainable aluminium production on the continent.
Initiated in 2015, the Roadmap has served as a guide for the European aluminium sector to achieving progress towards responsible production, innovative applications, and socio-economic contributions.
The mid-term review released this week identified several next steps in that journey. Director General of European Aluminium Gerd Götz elaborated in a related press release on the review.
“The European aluminium industry is a key enabler of Europe’s green transition and an active contributor to the welfare of our planet and people. We were one of the first industries to launch a joint sustainability roadmap and we are committed to continuing to lead the transition to a responsible and green industry. To that end, climate neutrality has received particular attention in the review of our 2015-established Roadmap.”
Among the initiatives European Aluminium advocates going forward is increasing focus on development of electricity decarbonization, emissions reduction, and increasing the prevalence of aluminium recycling. The trade group has committed to work with stakeholders in bringing about legislation and funding to meet those ends.
European Aluminium has also endeavored to define “sustainable aluminium,” classifying it as “aluminium produced with rigorous processes that respect high environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards considering all steps of the aluminium value chain, from sourcing raw materials to managing end-of-life products.”
“The European aluminium industry has always taken a holistic approach towards sustainability,” he continued. “Sustainability is about far more than reducing emissions and preserving the environment; it’s also about the positive impact we can make on our employees, local communities, the economy, and society. As sustainability leaders, we are committed to sharing best practices and our understanding of sustainable aluminium production. To this end, we look forward to contributing to the Global Arrangement on Sustainable Steel and Aluminium led by the EU and US.”