The Fastmarkets International Aluminium 2024 conference commenced on September 10th in Athens, a city renowned for its rich history of innovation and development.
This pivotal event provided a dynamic platform for industry leaders to present updates on the latest trends, technological advancements, and challenges facing the aluminium sector.
Workshops: Bridging Innovation and Reality
The first day of the conference featured a series of workshops organized by prominent organizations, including ICSOBA, the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI), and the European Aluminium Association. These sessions offered attendees a comprehensive overview of the current landscape, focusing on cutting-edge technologies and the hurdles that the industry must navigate.
One of the key topics of discussion was the long-anticipated development of Inert Anodes, which promise a carbon-free alternative for primary aluminium production. However, this promise has been overshadowed by years of delays and unmet expectations. Halvor Kvande, a retired professor from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology and former Norsk Hydro executive, highlighted the ongoing challenges:
“In 2007 we heard ‘we have the science, but not the technology.’ Now we are in 2024, and we have been told that the technology, which should have been scaled for industry by now, is not expected to be ready for another six years.”
This raises a critical question: Are Inert Anodes truly the future of the aluminium industry? The workshop prompted participants to explore alternative technologies and reassess the need for a fundamental shift in production processes.
A striking revelation emerged during discussions on emissions. While direct emissions from carbon anodes and electrolysis account for approximately 21% of the total global emissions related to aluminium production, indirect emissions from power generation for electrolysis are the predominant concern, contributing to 61% of the industry’s overall emissions (International Aluminium Institute, 2022).
Fastmarkets International Aluminium 2024 Conference
The Path Forward: Emissions and Energy Transition
Continuing the dialogue on emissions, Chris Bayliss, the Climate Change and Decarbonisation Director at ASI, introduced the ASI GHG Pathways Method. His presentation underscored the urgent need for a green energy transition, with attendees agreeing that low-carbon power sources could potentially reduce the sector’s greenhouse gas emissions by 55% to 60%.
Discussions in previous workshops highlighted the complexities of de-globalisation, geopolitical tensions, and energy-related frustrations that continue to impede technological advancement. These interconnected challenges necessitate a collaborative approach to devise effective strategies for overcoming barriers to progress.
Navigating Regulatory Challenges: The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism
Emanuele Manigrassi, Director of Climate & Energy at European Aluminium, facilitated a critical discussion on the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). This mechanism has sparked significant debate within the industry, particularly regarding its implications for non-EU countries. Attendees expressed concerns over the burdensome information requirements imposed by CBAM, questioning whether it serves to benefit the European industry or inadvertently isolates it from the global market.
Manigrassi emphasized the complexity of CBAM, noting that there is no clear consensus on its impact. He encouraged industry stakeholders to seek guidance from third-party resources and to familiarize themselves with the available documentation. Echoing this sentiment, Chris Bayliss advised a pragmatic approach: “A single decimal should suffice,” suggesting that the pursuit of absolute precision may not be necessary in navigating these regulatory challenges.
The Fastmarkets International Aluminium 2024 conference served as a crucial forum for addressing the pressing issues facing the aluminium industry. As stakeholders grapple with technological advancements, regulatory frameworks, and environmental responsibilities, collaboration and open dialogue will be essential in charting a sustainable path forward. The insights gained from this event will undoubtedly shape the industry’s trajectory in the years to come, fostering innovation while addressing the complex challenges that lie ahead.
