ASI launches Certification program for the aluminium value chain in December 2017

The Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI) has today launched a new Certification program for the aluminium value chain, focused on responsible production, sourcing and stewardship of this important industrial metal.

Aluminium is a versatile and highly recyclable metal that is seeing growing demand in a wide range of sectors such as transport, construction, packaging and electronics. ASI’s new Certification program will cover all stages of the value chain for aluminium, including bauxite mining, alumina refining, aluminium smelting, semi-fabrication, product design and manufacturing, and recycling.

Following today’s launch, ASI members can now seek Certification against ASI’s Standards. The ASI’s Performance Standard covers critical issues for the entire aluminium value chain including greenhouse gas emissions, waste management, material stewardship, biodiversity and human rights.  ASI’s Chain of Custody (CoC) Standard links responsible production with responsible sourcing and thus increases the emphasis on sustainability issues in procurement. Implementation of both Standards should see the first ASI Aluminium available from 2018 or 2019.

“This is a really pivotal moment for ASI. Today’s launch marks the start of a new certification that will embed sustainability and human rights principles into the production, use and recycling of aluminium, and is the culmination of many years of collective effort. ASI’s key strength is its robust multi-stakeholder governance and standards-setting process. With a growing global membership, we have an opportunity to make significant impact,” says Daniel Weston, Chair of the ASI Board and General Counsel & Global Head of Corporate Affairs for Nestlé Nespresso SA.

“Supply-chain certification programs like ASI are becoming increasingly important for customers and stakeholders, who seek assurance that companies’ sustainability practices are genuine. Through extensive stakeholder participation and consultation, ASI has designed Standards that provide a shared platform to address key issues and create B2B incentives for their implementation. We are excited about the next steps as member companies work towards achieving the first ASI Certifications in 2018,” says Dr Fiona Solomon, ASI Chief Executive Officer.

ASI’s development strategy has included in-house development of data platforms to help manage the certification process for both ASI members and auditors. The ASI online assurance platform, known as elementAl, was piloted with members in 2017 and continues to be expanded with new functionalities.

ASI was incorporated as a not-for-profit entity in 2015, and has a global membership that is open to all interested organisations. It is governed by a Board of eight, with six elected from members organisations and two independent directors.

ASI’s Standards Committee oversaw public consultation processes in 2016 and 2017 to develop and finalise the Standards, supporting Guidance and assurance model. ASI’s Indigenous Peoples Advisory Forum liaises with the Board and two representatives participate in the Standards Committee.

Key topics such as biodiversity, climate change, recycling, and human rights will continue to be the focus of ASI Working Groups, to prepare for future revisions of ASI Standards and Guidance and support peer learning.

The first ASI Accredited Auditors were announced in November 2017 and additional applications are in process.

ASI’s Standards have been launched in English and will be translated into a range of other languages in 2018.

About ASI

ASI’s 57 members include leading civil society organisations, companies with activities in bauxite mining, alumina refining, aluminium smelting, semi-fabrication, product and component manufacturing, as well as consumer and commercial goods, including the automotive industry, construction and packaging, plus industry associations and other supporters.

ASI continues to seek engagement with commercial entities and stakeholders in the aluminium value chain from across the world. Organisations interested in membership are encouraged to learn more about our membership structure and how to join.