Unite. Act. Deliver. Isn't that what we all want when tackling climate change and its impact on our planet?
The aluminium industry stands at a critical juncture, making it imperative for the sector to participate in, monitor, and support COP28. With the industry contributing 2 per cent of global anthropogenic emissions, COP28 represents a unique opportunity for the aluminium sector to align its strategies with international efforts to combat climate change.
While aluminium is inherently sustainable, its production is associated with a substantial carbon footprint. The industry's annual emission of 1.1 billion tonnes of CO2 necessitates collective efforts to find solutions.
According to an AL Circle report, in bauxite mining, the concern about CO2 emissions is relatively low compared to other stages of aluminium production. The mining energy comes from diesel, resulting in the release of 100 Kg of CO2 per tonne. Transportation adds to emissions. In the alumina production stage, indirect emissions occur during digestion and heating processes, contributing 18 per cent of total GHG emissions in aluminium production.
However, the electrolysis stage is the primary offender, causing 77 per cent of total emissions due to heavy reliance on electricity. The industry's decarbonisation relies on the power available to aluminium smelters, with grid and captive power sources posing different challenges for decarbonisation efforts. Captive coal-fired power plants have contributed to increased emissions in the sector.
Despite aluminium's reputation for being environmentally friendly, the production process could be more eco-friendly, involving significant power consumption in electricity and fuel at each stage. That is the reason why events like COP28 make a difference.
The global aluminium sustainability report by AL Circle points out that the decarbonisation efforts in the aluminium industry face challenges due to disparities in starting points across the value chain, particularly concerning the availability of cost-competitive renewable power.
While renewable energy presents a crucial opportunity to reduce carbon emissions in this energy-intensive sector, regional variations in the generation mix complicate the transition to renewables for some companies, making the shift more expensive and challenging.
COP28 UAE in November and December stands as a pivotal opportunity for various industries to come together and commit to sustainable development on a global scale.
The United Nations underscores the need for drastic action to curb emissions through initiatives like the Paris Agreement. Likely, the decisions and commitments made at COP28 can shape the industry's trajectory and influence its role in the broader context of global efforts to mitigate climate change.
As global demand for aluminium is expected to surge, reaching 80 per cent by 2050, COP28 becomes a focal point for the industry to address its carbon footprint and chart a sustainable path forward. Following COP28 is about compliance and seizing the chance to showcase the aluminium industry's commitment to environmental responsibility, innovation, and a collective push toward a greener and more sustainable future.
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