IAI Decarbonisation pathways

The aluminium sector, integral to various industries, faces the dual challenge of meeting a growing demand while addressing its significant carbon footprint. The International Aluminium Institute (IAI) has outlined several key decarbonization pathways that offer promising strategies for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in aluminium production. Here is a closer look at those pathways and their potential impact.

Electrification and renewable energy integration

Transitioning to renewable energy is pivotal for the aluminium sector to meet climate targets. The production of aluminium from bauxite ore is highly energy-intensive, with emissions primarily generated in the smelting process. The IAI advocates for electrifying aluminium production and integrating renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power.

Innovative smelting technologies

The traditional Hall-Héroult process is a major source of CO₂ due to the use of carbon anodes. The IAI highlights the development of inert anode technology as a transformative solution where inert anodes replace carbon anodes, preventing CO₂ emissions during electrolysis.

Enhanced recycling practices

Recycling aluminium is considerably less carbon-intensive compared to primary production. The IAI emphasizes the importance of boosting the use of secondary aluminium through improved recycling practices

Energy efficiency improvements

Enhancing energy efficiency across the aluminium production chain is another critical pathway. The IAI advocates for upgrading equipment, optimizing processes, and implementing advanced energy management systems.

Carbon capture and storage (CCS)

CCS technologies capture CO₂ emissions from industrial processes and store them underground or repurpose them. The IAI supports CCS as a strategy to mitigate emissions that are challenging to eliminate entirely.

Process optimization and low-carbon alternatives

Process optimization and the use of low-carbon alternatives can further reduce the carbon footprint of aluminium production. The IAI encourages research into alternative raw materials and methods that decrease emissions.

Summary

The aluminium sector has several viable pathways for aligning with climate targets, as outlined by the IAI. Electrification with renewable energy, innovative smelting technologies, enhanced recycling, energy efficiency improvements, carbon capture, and process optimization each play a critical role in reducing emissions. Achieving these targets will require coordinated efforts, significant investments, and overcoming technical and economic challenges. But by pursuing these pathways, the aluminium industry can make substantial progress towards meeting global climate goals and ensuring a sustainable future.