Aluminium: The Sustainable Metal Shaping the Future
In a world where sustainability is becoming increasingly important, aluminium has emerged as a crucial component in various industries. From our cars to our smartphones, and even the wind turbines that generate clean electricity, aluminium plays a vital role in creating sustainable products and solutions.
The popularity of aluminium can be attributed to its unique properties. It is a lightweight metal that offers strength and durability, making it ideal for a wide range of applications. Additionally, aluminium is an excellent conductor of heat and electricity, further enhancing its appeal. Notably, aluminium is also highly recyclable, with approximately 75% of all aluminium ever produced still in circulation.
Despite its numerous advantages, the production of aluminium comes with environmental challenges. According to The International Aluminium Institute (IAI), the aluminium sector is responsible for emitting around 1.1 billion tonnes of CO2e, accounting for approximately 2% of global annual greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Furthermore, aluminium production is considered one of the most carbon-intensive processes among metals.
However, despite its carbon footprint, the importance of aluminium cannot be undermined. It plays a crucial role in making electric cars more efficient by reducing their weight, thus increasing their viability. Moreover, aluminium enables the development of wind farms and solar panels, which are essential for the energy transition towards renewable sources.
The GHG emissions associated with aluminium production vary among different producers, primarily due to the energy-intensive smelting process. In fact, around 60% of the industry’s GHG footprint is attributed to the electricity required for aluminium production.
One company that has taken a proactive approach to address this challenge is Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA). Established in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 1975, EGA has emerged as a pioneer in sustainable aluminium production. In 2021, EGA became the first company worldwide to commercially produce aluminium using solar energy.
EGA achieved this milestone by harnessing clean energy from two significant solar power plants in the UAE. The first source of clean energy is the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, operated by Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA). The second source is the Noor Abu Dhabi at Sweihan, owned by Emirates Electricity and Water Company (EWEC). With this renewable energy, EGA developed a unique aluminium product called CelestiAL.
CelestiAL has gained attention from prestigious customers, including the BMW Group and Tier 1 suppliers to Mercedes-Benz and Nissan. These partnerships highlight the increasing demand for sustainable aluminium solutions in the automotive industry.
By utilizing solar energy in the production process, EGA is significantly reducing the carbon footprint associated with aluminium production. This innovative approach not only showcases the potential for sustainable manufacturing but also demonstrates the feasibility of transitioning to cleaner energy sources in the aluminium sector.
As the world continues to prioritize sustainability, aluminium remains a critical material in shaping the future. Its unique properties, coupled with ongoing efforts to reduce its environmental impact, make it an indispensable component in creating a greener and more sustainable world.
