In our latest e-Magazine LeaderSpeak 2025, Marghanita Johnson, the Chief Executive Officer at the Australian Aluminium Council, has discussed the importance of having increased alumina refineries and bauxite mining. She also adds her key takeaways on the need to reach the target of net zero in the mining sector. The further interview also unfolds strategies for conducting sustainable bauxite mining. Unlock the entire interview, refer to the e-Magazine.

AL Circle: Why is sustainable bauxite mining important in achieving global emissions reductions?

Marghanita Johnson: Australia has more than 60 years of technical experience in bauxite mining and alumina refining technologies. This deep knowledge benefits not only our domestic industry but also our global customers as they work towards their sustainability goals. Australia’s industry collaborates with our world class research agencies helping to develop new technologies for global markets. However, to implement these innovations at scale, we need support to overcome technical, commercial, and market challenges.

Additionally, investment in transformational abatement in Australia’s alumina refineries also needs to be supported by access to bauxite environmental approvals on commensurate time scales. For example, investment in a 20–30-year asset at an alumina refinery would need to be supported by surety of bauxite supply over the same period.

As a leader in sustainable mining practices, the aluminium sector supports rigorous environmental standards. Approval processes should reflect the commercial realities of long-term, capital-intensive projects while ensuring regulatory integrity.

AL Circle: How would you characterise the current state of Australia’s aluminium industry? 

Marghanita Johnson: The Australian aluminium industry stands at a pivotal point. While facing challenges, it also has significant opportunities to lead in low-carbon manufacturing. Investments in renewable energy, innovation funding, and production incentives underscore its strategic national and international significance.

Amid global uncertainty in the sector, the industry has reiterated its call for the inclusion of bauxite, alumina and aluminium to Australia’s Critical Minerals list. This alignment with key trading partners would send a clear signal that Australia is committed to safeguarding its vital role in the global supply chain.

AL Circle: What's Australian Aluminium Council's take on Aluminium Tariffs?
Marghanita Johnson: Australia’s bauxite, alumina and aluminium are globally traded and there are interdependencies in these supply chains. It’s early days and we are still working to understand the impact of tariffs on Australia’s aluminium trade, and, in the meantime, we will continue working with the Australian Government and its representatives on this important issue. This includes working with the Australian Government to ensure Australia’s downstream aluminium manufacturers can compete through free and fair trade in the face of uneven global competition.

To explore the full interview and gain deeper insights on the global aluminium market and how the Australian Aluminium Council  is contributing to its growth, click here.