Assan Alüminyum, one of Europe’s largest flat-rolled aluminium producers and a subsidiary of the Kibar Group, has announced an ambitious plan to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. The company unveiled its “Decarbonization Roadmap 2050,” outlining key targets that will see significant reductions in its carbon footprint by 2030 and 2035 as part of its commitment to sustainability.
The aluminium giant has set clear milestones, aiming to lower its emissions to 7 tons of CO2 equivalent per ton (t CO2e/t) by 2030, reduce this to 3 t CO2e/t by 2035, and reach net zero by 2050.
A Major Player in European Aluminium Production
As one of Europe’s top two aluminium foil producers, Assan Alüminyum’s efforts to decarbonise are significant in addressing the broader environmental impact of the aluminium sector. The industry is responsible for approximately 2% of global emissions, equivalent to 1 gigatonne of CO2e (Gt CO2e). Without substantial action, these emissions are projected to rise further by 2050, warned Assan Alüminyum’s General Manager, Göksal Güngör.
“Our sector has a critical role in global efforts to combat climate change. That’s why we’ve put forward a roadmap that focuses on driving sustainability through energy efficiency, renewable energy, and circular practices,” said Mr Güngör.
$100 Million Investment in Sustainability
To achieve its targets, Assan Alüminyum has made significant investments of $100 million towards energy efficiency, resource management, and the installation of filtration systems aimed at reducing carbon emissions. Renewable energy is also a cornerstone of its decarbonisation strategy, with plans to expand capacity significantly over the next decade.
One of the key areas the company is focusing on is increasing the use of secondary, or recycled, aluminium. Secondary aluminium has a much lower carbon footprint than primary aluminium, making it a crucial factor in reducing overall emissions. Assan Alüminyum aims to boost the recycled content in its products by 2025 and will continue developing low-carbon primary supply chains.
Securing Green Financing and Industry Certification
As part of its commitment to sustainability, Assan Alüminyum recently secured $90 million in green financing from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a first for the sector. The green financing deal, fully labelled for climate-related projects, will support the company’s ongoing carbon reduction initiatives.
In addition, Assan Alüminyum has earned certification under the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative’s (ASI) Performance Standard for its production and recycling facilities. This certification affirms the company’s alignment with international sustainability standards and its dedication to ethical and environmentally responsible practices.
A Pioneering Role in the Aluminium Industry
With its decarbonisation roadmap, Assan Alüminyum is positioned as a leader in the global aluminium industry’s shift towards more sustainable practices. The company’s focus on innovation, coupled with strategic investments in technology and renewable energy, ensures it remains at the forefront of reducing environmental impact.
“By setting these ambitious targets and investing in the future, we’re not only reducing our carbon footprint but also demonstrating how the aluminium industry can play a key role in addressing the climate crisis,” Mr Güngör added.
As Assan Alüminyum moves forward with its roadmap, the company’s efforts will likely influence the wider industry’s approach to sustainability, setting new benchmarks for carbon reduction and environmental stewardship.