The International Aluminium Institute (IAI) has reported significant progress in its Aluminium Industry Greenhouse Gas Initiative, revealing that a majority of its member companies have set ambitious climate targets. Launched at COP28 in December 2023, the initiative tracks the greenhouse gas reduction goals of the aluminium industry, with a focus on encouraging transparent reporting and significant action to combat climate change.
Key highlights of the initiative include a commitment from 80% of IAI member companies to achieve long-term net zero emissions, with many targeting this goal by mid-century. Furthermore, a large number of companies have set interim targets, aiming for a 50% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030. These commitments come as part of a broader industry-wide effort to decarbonise operations and support global climate objectives.
Pernelle Nunez, Deputy Secretary General and Sustainability Director at IAI, emphasised the importance of the industry’s responsibility in addressing the climate crisis. She said, “Our industry recognises its responsibility in the global fight against climate change. The progress we’ve made demonstrates our commitment to transparency and accountability as we work towards a sustainable future.”
The report highlights encouraging trends in emission reductions. Many companies are aiming for a 10% to 50% reduction in emissions intensity, reflecting the diverse starting points of individual firms. A significant number of IAI members have also set specific emissions intensity targets alongside absolute reductions, although there is some variation in how these goals are structured.
The long-term goals of IAI members are largely consistent, with the majority aiming for net zero or carbon neutrality by 2050. However, few companies have explicitly included Scope 3 emissions within their targets, though some have aligned their goals with national commitments or focused on emissions intensity reductions instead of absolute net-zero targets.
Despite these promising developments, Nunez acknowledges that more work lies ahead. “Setting and publicly disclosing climate goals and targets help to focus efforts and encourage accountability. As the industry now shifts from ambition-setting towards action, demonstrating real progress towards those goals will be critical,” she said.
Innovation is at the forefront of the industry’s efforts, with investments in technologies such as inert anode technology, carbon capture and storage, and renewable energy sources for aluminium smelting. These advancements are seen as crucial for meeting the decarbonisation goals set by the sector.
The IAI has committed to providing annual updates on its members’ progress, fostering transparency and accountability within the industry. However, the organisation has warned that the current trajectory of the aluminium sector is not aligned with the ambitious targets of the Paris Agreement. As the world moves closer to the critical next decade, Nunez stressed that collaboration across the aluminium value chain will be essential for achieving the necessary reductions to meet global climate goals.
“The next decade will be crucial in determining whether we can limit global warming to 1.5°C,” Nunez concluded. “Our industry has a key role to play in the energy transition, but it will take unprecedented effort and collaboration from all involved to lead by example in decarbonisation.” For more information, visit www.international-aluminium.org