Recycled aluminium weekly recap: Novelis on track to upgrade its Scriba plant while EGA joins hands with German recycler Leichtmetall

In this week's developments, the aluminium industry continues its journey towards sustainability and innovation, embracing eco-friendly practices and circular economy principles. Amazon's strategic investment in Glacier, a pioneering AI sorting technology, underscores a pivotal step towards efficient resource utilisation and waste reduction. Concurrently, Novelis's ambitious rail infrastructure upgrade in Scriba, New York, funded by the County of Oswego Industrial Development Agency, signals a commitment to greener operations and enhanced logistical efficiency. EGA's acquisition of Leichtmetall, a German recycling firm, further exemplifies the industry's concerted efforts towards sustainable growth and reduced environmental footprint. These transformative initiatives collectively highlight the industry's trajectory towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.

Amazon pledges financial aid to Glacier's AI sorting technology

Amazon's Climate Pledge Fund has invested in San Francisco-based tech start-up Glacier, which has developed an affordable AI robotic sorting system capable of handling over 10 million used products from overcrowded landfills. Efficient sorting is key to ensuring optimal resource utilisation and minimising environmental impact in aluminium recycling. Amazon's investment in Glacier highlights the transformative potential of sustainable technology in reshaping waste management practices, promoting eco-friendly solutions and embracing circular economy principles.

Novelis enhances in-house rail operations at its Scriba plant with state funding

The County of Oswego Industrial Development Agency (IDA) has received a $2.787 million grant to improve rail infrastructure at the Novelis plant in Scriba, New York. The improvements will optimise rail operations by realigning tracks for longer railcars and reactivating dormant tracks to streamline railcar movement. Novelis plans to replace two high-emission railcar movers with more environmentally friendly alternatives to reduce reliance on conventional transportation methods. The project is projected to reduce emissions, support job retention, and reduce reliance on aluminium sourced from Canada. The PFRAP program, administered by the New York State Department of Transportation, aims to enhance freight movement, service reliability, and economic development in upstate regions. The initiative is one of the largest in PFRAP's history, with nearly 40 projects totalling over $111.1 million.

India's imported aluminium scrap prices maintain resilience despite a slight dip in LME prices

The Indian market for imported aluminium scrap has held steady despite a slight dip in LME prices. Reports suggest that imported aluminium scrap prices have seen a modest increase of up to 0.9%. The price surge can be attributed to supply constraints in scrap, fuelled by the strong demand from Asian markets. Shipment delays and geopolitical conflicts along shipping routes have been influencing freight rates. Expectations indicate a potential easing of the current crisis by mid-April. In the local aluminium market, tense scrap prices currently command premiums of up to 8,000 per tonne.

EGA bolsters global presence with German recycling firm Leichtmetall acquisition

Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) has acquired Leichtmetall, a renowned aluminium recycling company based in Germany. EGA intends to acquire 100% ownership of the company currently held by Leichtmetall Holding GmbH, a subsidiary under an investment fund managed by Quantum Capital Partners GmbH. EGA's recent acquisition marks a significant milestone, being its first major purchase following the merger of Dubai Aluminium and Emirates Aluminium a decade ago. The acquisition provides EGA with a platform to develop a recycling business close to its customers in Europe, contributing to the emerging circular economy and building on its existing position as one of the biggest importers of primary aluminium on that continent. The acquisition of Leichtmetall adds significant value to EGA and enables it to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Aluminium boasts infinite recyclability, requiring a mere 5 per cent of the energy needed for new metal production and emitting significantly fewer greenhouse gases.

Hydro to source processed aluminium scrap from Sims Alumisource

Norwegian aluminium and renewable energy company Norsk Hydro has signed a multi-year agreement with Sims Alumisource to source processed aluminium scrap for its North American extrusion plants. The agreement will provide Hydro's North American Extrusions business unit with around 36,000 tonnes of additional post-consumer aluminium scrap. This move will help Hydro to establish a circular economy and a sustainable future in the aluminium industry. Sims Alumisource will support Hydro in their circular and emissions reduction ambitions while at the same time supporting the delivery of our own company purpose, creating a world without waste to preserve our planet.