We are part of the solution

We take our mission seriously – “to create a more viable society.” This means making climate change an inherent part of how we run our business.

Climate change is one of the most pressing issues facing mankind. At Hydro, we believe aluminium should be an even greater part of the solution to address this global challenge.

Indeed, our climate strategy is now fundamental to our business strategy. The modern world could not exist without aluminium. Its unique properties – high strength-to-weight ratio, recyclability, corrosion resistance – to name just a few, make so much of modern life possible, from aviation and automobiles to food preservation and printing.

But it takes a lot of electricity to produce aluminium – initially. The emissions from generating this electricity and from the electrolysis process are key areas of concern for Hydro. From 1990 to 2007, we reduced our specific emissions from the electrolysis process by 57 percent. And we aim to reduce these at least another 15 percent by 2012 from the 2007 level. Our ambition is to strengthen our search for new technologies and more renewable sources of energy that will enable us to reduce these even further.

There are five key points framing our strategy:

Generate more green energy
Hydro continues to lead the cause for more energy efficiency in aluminium production. Renewable energy has always been our preferred choice, and we’re working to harness every possible kilowatt from our existing hydropower resources.

Produce more, emit less
While fossil fuel-based energy can account for much of the emissions from primary aluminium production, the electrolysis process used in smelting is also a source of emissions. Our new technologies reduce emissions per kilo of aluminium produced.

Put products on an energy diet
Reducing our energy consumption is one of the most important tools in the fight against climate change. Hydro is leading this charge by helping customers use aluminium to create more energy-efficient products, buildings and vehicles.

Make the future recycled
A viable future will be built with materials – like aluminium – that can be endlessly recycled without loss of quality. We’re strengthening our own remelting efforts, helping foster ‘end-of-life’ recycling, and helping customers and stakeholders better prepare for recycling.

Make solar shine
The world needs more solar energy solutions to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. We are addressing this challenge with investments in solar energy conversion technologies and aluminium-based solutions for buildings and large-scale solar energy parks.