Every step matters on the path to zero
ALUMINIUM 2024 in Dusseldorf, Germany, is more than just an exhibition, it's an opportunity to engage with our stakeholders and share how we’re changing the aluminium game. We are looking forward to highlighting critical aspects of our business model that are fundamental to the path to zero.
The green transition starts with each and every one of us. In view of the growing demand for solutions that reduce emissions from production processes along the entire value chain, we are overcoming previous boundaries and rethinking aluminium. Together with our customers - we are changing the game. Net zero is possible, and we have a concrete plan for how this can become a reality. Our goal is to make a fundamental contribution to the fight against climate change.
Responsibility matters on the path to zero
Our ambition is to increase the gender balance in the company by reaching 25% female employees in 2025. All business areas are developing roadmaps to deliver on these ambitions. So far, we have managed to increase the percentage of females over that of previous years. We believe that to uphold the right environmental and social standards, larger players must lead the way and set good examples. That’s why responsibility is important to us, so we can give back more to society, both for social and climate purposes.
At Hydro, we know that diversity is more than just a value—it's our strength. Our success is built on the diverse blend of education, experience, gender, age, and cultural backgrounds that our employees bring to the table. This diversity not only drives innovation but also deepens our understanding of our customers and enhances our ability to meet their needs.
The Women with Metal Awards at Aluminium 2024 celebrates the remarkable women whose talents and leadership drive both innovation and sustainability. By honoring these women, we are recognizing the vital role diversity plays in building a more responsible and forward-thinking aluminium industry. Join us on October 9th as we celebrate the women who are leading the way.
We are involved in every step of the aluminium value chain—from bauxite mining to end-of-life recycling. This comes with a special responsibility. We are dedicated to minimizing our social and environmental impact and making sure our practices align with our sustainability goals. By using advanced technology and being transparent about our processes, we are setting a new standard for aluminium production. We believe that taking responsibility is key to moving towards a zero-emissions future, and every step we take makes a difference.
Innovation matters on the path to zero
We have upgraded our production technology and made operational improvements, reducing anode effects and other disruptions that release high concentrations of climate gases. Our competitive advantage as an aluminium producer lies in our continuous focus on decarbonizing operations, improving processes and products with a strong emphasis on both market needs and environmental impact. Our innovations not only enable us to produce market-leading low-carbon and recycled aluminium, but also set a benchmark for the entire industry. Read more about some of our decarbonization efforts below.
At Hydro, we believe the fastest way to reach zero-emission aluminium production is through increased recycling efforts. By utilizing aluminium scrap that has already lived a life as a consumer product, we can produce aluminium using only 5% of the energy needed for primary aluminium production and with a fraction of the footprint of primary aluminium. Hydro CIRCAL 100R is a proof of that—using 100% post-consumer scrap and renewable energy to remelt, leading to a footprint of less than 0.5 kilo CO2e per kilo aluminium.
We are aiming to further reduce the average casthouse product footprint and strengthen our technology drive towards zero emissions. Footprint reduction will be achieved by exploring all possible paths including increased use of post-consumer scrap, Bauxite & Alumina decarbonization and sourcing of low carbon raw materials. Additionally, we strengthen our efforts to develop zero-emission electrolysis technologies like HalZero and Carbon Capture and Stroage (CCS).
Our proprietary HalZero technology changes this process by first converting alumina to aluminium chloride. In this closed-loop system, chlorine and carbon are recycled, eliminating CO2 emissions and releasing oxygen instead.
CCS solutions are being advanced to retrofit our existing aluminium plants. By capturing CO2 directly from production, we’re reducing emissions while maintaining the highest quality standards.
Collaboration matters on the path to zero
Collaboration is essential to our success. We believe that by working together—internally and externally—we can combine our strengths to create win-win opportunities. Whether it’s partnering with colleagues, customers or communities, we know that collaboration leads to better solutions and stronger outcomes. “No one can do everything, but everyone can do something,” the saying goes. This applies to our company and our relationships with our customers and partners. Collaboration matters on the path to zero.
We challenged seven designers to create objects with Hydro CIRCAL 100R, our recycled aluminium made of 100% recycled post-consumer scrap. From lamps to a partition wall,the designers proved that recycled aluminium doesn’t have any design-restrictions compared to newly produced aluminium. Thanks to the seven designers, we were able to show that beauty and greener products go hand in hand.
The Brompton Bike is Iconic due to its features and design. To be this innovative, every component matters. We wanted to be a supplier to this innovative company, and created wheel rims made from 100% recycled material, Hydro CIRCAL 100R. Even though the wheel rims are only a part of the bike, it is a good example of “every step matter on the path to zero”, where focusing on the small things can eventually lead to big changes.
We have more than 1,000 engineers, and sustainability influences the work of them all. Hydro EcoDesign is about creating better products with a smaller environmental impact. The methodology was developed with support from the Environmental Protection Encouragement Agency (EPEA). Hydro EcoDesign is therefore beneficial both for the products you want to make, but also to make your business more environmentally friendly.
ALUMINIUM 2024 is an occasion for us to speak with stakeholders about important areas to ensure how to deliver aluminium solutions in alignment with the highest sustainability standards. What is your path to zero? We are looking forward to exploring solutions together at ALUMINIUM 2024 in Düsseldorf, Germany, from October 8-10.
Would you like to attend ALUMINIUM 2024 to explore how Hydro is changing the aluminium game?