Take a deep dive into ASI's Assurance Process by exploring our new story - 10 things you need to know about the ASI Assurance Process.
(Pictured above: One of the many community interview sessions conducted by the audit team as part of the GAC audit in Guinea; photo taken by ASI as part of the witness assessment - December 2022)
1.5C trajectory compatible GHG reduction plan approved by ASI Board
The ASI Board, at its last meeting held on November 15, resolved to approve the ASI Entity GHG Pathways Calculation Tool as an “ASI endorsed methodology” for Performance Standard v3 Criterion 5.3 on GHG Emissions Reduction Plans, as per the ASI Standards Committee recommendation.
With this resolution, the Secretariat continues to work on the rollout plan developed previously:
Publication of the method, tool and supporting training in January 2024, to allow Entities and Auditors to prepare for implementation/audits.
Incorporation into ASI Performance Standard Guidance revision (v.3.1.1) in May 2024, against which subsequent ASI Audits are to be assessed.
Further research and development by the Secretariat in 2024 (bauxite and alumina slopes; land use emissions).
The Board congratulated the Standards Committee, Climate Change Working Group and Secretariat on the timely delivery of a 1.5 degree aligned method that is applicable to all ASI certifying Entities - a critical priority for ASI this year.
For more information on the methodology, please contact Chris Bayliss, ASI Decarbonisation Adviser
Climate change mitigation efforts in the aluminium sector: ASI’s approach
Climate change demands mitigation efforts across all carbon-intensive industries - and these will be a critical focus of COP 28. With the aluminium production process accounting for approximately 2% of global emissions, curbing the industry's greenhouse gas footprint is crucial to limit global warming to 1.5°C.
ASI provides standards, data transparency and collaborative platforms to drive climate action across the aluminium value chain. This includes science-based targets, convening a Climate Change Working Group, and partnering with other initiatives working on 1.5°C alignment. By bringing stakeholders together and guiding the transition, ASI seeks to secure sustainable aluminium supply amidst decarbonisation of the wider economy.
Balancing act: Leveraging FPIC to decarbonise aluminium while respecting Indigenous rights
In the world's shift toward sustainability, aluminium stands as a vital material aiding multiple industries in their decarbonization efforts. Its significance in a circular economy is clear. However, the aluminium industry continues to grapple with the need to reduce its carbon footprint, and the implementation of solutions must acknowledge and address impacts on Indigenous communities.
The Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) principle is embedded in the ASI Performance Standard to ensure that Indigenous peoples and local communities have a say in projects affecting their lands. This includes projects that deal with the transition to renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power. Recent cases, like the conflict in Norway between the Sami groups and wind turbine construction impacting reindeer pastures, underscore the importance of respecting Indigenous rights in renewable projects.
The way forward lies in collaborative, holistic approaches that engage Indigenous communities as equal partners, valuing their traditional ecological knowledge, and integrating their insights into climate mitigation strategies. True progress in decarbonising the aluminium industry requires an inclusive process that respects both people and the planet.
Land requirements for energy production for aluminium smelters certified under the ASI Performance Standard
Decarbonising energy production – a requirement of Performance Standard Principle 5 – has land use implications. Land-use changes for development can have significant environmental and social impacts.
An analysis of energy-related land requirements for ASI Performance Standard (PS) Certified aluminium smelters revealed the following:
The 59 ASI PS Certified aluminium smelters rely on renewables for 61% of electricity generation: hydroelectric power is highest at 55% followed by natural gas (25%), thermal coal (13%), other renewables (wind, solar, geothermal; 6%), and nuclear (1%). In contrast, globally, 50% of electricity for aluminium smelters is generated from coal.
Over the decade from 2012 and 2022, there has been an estimated 86% increase in total energy-related land requirements for ASI PS Certified smelters, reaching 2971 km² in 2022.
Land requirements for power generation from all fuel sources have increased over the years, except for nuclear power. Hydroelectric power supplying aluminium smelters has the highest land requirement, nearly doubling in total surface area over a decade (estimated from 1511 km2 in 2012 to 2812 km2 in 2022).
As a result, the average energy-related land requirements at ASI PS Certified smelters has increased by an estimated 28% from 97 m2 / tonne of Aluminium produced in 2012, to 124 m2 / tonne Aluminium in 2022.
CAPRAL Aluminium: Developing a quality organisation
In our Member Story series, ASI members describe how their implementation of the ASI Standards and certification journey has improved their performance and processes in a concrete way. They share the real-world impact on performance metrics, operational efficiency gains and other beneficial qualitative changes observed in their operations.
In this new Member Story, Marc Banks, Group ESG & Risk Manager of CAPRAL Limited talks about their implementation of integrated management systems, strengthened supplier and customer engagement, increased confidence in their assurance process and risk assessment methodology, and achieving a sustainable future based on data.
ASI Board approves updates to ASI membership and application process
At its last meeting, the ASI Board approved the following updates to the ASI membership and application process:
Free ASI Membership for Civil Society– Confirmation of this free membership is in recognition of the expected in-kind contributions made through their participation in the Standards Committee / Working Groups (previously membership fees were waived). We continue to encourage more participation from Civil Society Groups and not-for-profit organisations that serve the interests of the public or a segment of the public, including environmental or human rights non-governmental organisations, indigenous peoples or community-based organisations, labour organisations and consumer associations.
Due diligence information requested at the point of application – As part of the due diligence on new membership applications, ASI now requests information on the beneficial ownership of the entity applying for membership, instead of after an application has been received. We request this information to assure us that prospective members or their representatives are not subject to international sanctions, and as part of a broader process to identify and manage risks.
Register now: Opportunities and emerging technologies aimed at decarbonising and enhancing the circularity of the aluminium value chain
Join us for an enlightening webinar exploring the transformation of the aluminium sector. We'll dive into the current state and forecasted dynamics of U.S. aluminium flows, unveiling cutting-edge technologies geared towards decarbonising production.
The session will also dissect the intricate challenges and opportunities within the industry, highlighting innovative approaches to amplify high-value reuse and recycling. We will focus on the circular actions reshaping the aluminium value chain in a climate-conscious era. Delve into the future of aluminium with a focus on sustainability and technological evolution.
Date: December 13, 2023 Time: 12:30 PM London • 1:30 PM Paris • 11:30 PM Melbourne
The 30th World Aluminium Conference will be held over three days, from May 14-16, 2024 at the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel in London. ASI will be co-hosting the event, alongside the International Aluminium Institute.
The conference brings together professionals from across the aluminium supply chain, including from the primary, secondary, extruded, rolled products, end use, trading and financial sectors.
Registrations are now open. Information on early-bird prices is found on the event website.
ASI's 45 minutes on... webinars covering a broad range of key issues related to our work program, often held in partnership with ASI members and top experts from leading organisations in their fields. If you missed one, you can watch the recording. The most recent ones are linked below.
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ASI CERTIFICATION NEWS
In November, ASI Members achieved two new certifications, with several more in the announcement pipeline.
Magna International has achieved ASI Performance Standard V3 (2022) Certification Design and manufacture of transmissions, powertrain systems and components at its Magna PT s.r.o Kechnec, Slovakia Powertrain facility. Consult the media release.
Shanghai Huafon Aluminium Corporation has achieved ASI Performance Standard V2 (2017) Certification for its manufacturing processes including casting, hot rolling, cold rolling, slitting and stamping at its production plant in Jinshan District, Shanghai, China. Consult the media release.
In November, ASI welcomed six new Production & Transformation members, two new Industrial User members and one new General Supporter member, bringing the total number of ASI members to 326.
Read more about our new members below, and for more information about ASI membership, please visit the Join ASI page on our website!
Nanjing Yunhai Aluminum Co., Ltd.
Nanjing Yunhai Aluminum Co., Ltd. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Baowu Magnesium Industry. Its predecessor was Nanjing Yunhai Special Metals Co., Ltd. It was listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange in 2007. The company is a high-tech enterprise that integrates... Read more.
Nanjing Yunhai Aluminum Industry Co., Ltd. voluntarily joins Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI) and fully accepts the concept of sustainable development, actively promotes energy conservation and consumption reduction, protects the ecological environment, creates value for global customers, creates benefits for enterprises, is responsible for society, and contributes to the progress and development of humanity and society.
– Mr. Wu Dejun, General Manager, Nanjing Yunhai Aluminum Industry Co., Ltd.
Aluminium semi-fabrication is provided by our aluminium Rolled Products and Extrusions business located in South Africa. We supply to customers across South Africa, Africa and the world, focusing on specific product and end-use markets. As the only major... Read more.
Hulamin has an organisational culture that places great value on its shareholders, employees, communities and key stakeholders, with a clear understanding of the close connection between the health of these key stakeholders to that of the business. By joining ASI, we believe that all we have in place will add credibility to Hulamin as a responsible and sustainable producer of aluminium products. We view the certification processes of the ASI Performance Standard as an opportunity to critically reassess the governance of our industry and to challenge our current approaches to our stakeholders. Furthermore, it is expected that certification with the ASI Performance Standard will result in adding value to our products and possibly attract new markets.
– Hendrik de Villiers, Head of Environmental Sustainability
We are a company dedicated to aluminium casting and injection for the manufacture of parts used in the automotive industry of the highest quality. A Japanese company with its roots in Hiroshima Japan with more than 80 years of technological innovation used in each of the processes....Read more.
At HAL ALUMINUM MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., we carry out the casting, injection, aluminium machining and assembly processes for the manufacture of engine and transmission parts for the automotive sector. We do this with the quality that satisfies the needs and expectations of our clients, preventing dangers and risks to people and facilities as well as contamination to our environment. To achieve this, we are committed to the environment and to respect standards and apply continuous improvement in our processes to guarantee quality, environmental protection and avoid contamination.
Guangdong Betterlid Packaging Material Co.,Ltd. was founded in 2012. We are the leading and professional manufacturers of aluminium packaging materials and an integrated solutions supplier. We have been focusing on the production, processing, research and development of aluminium packaging materials which are widely used for easy-open ends, aluminium tabs, screw caps, Maxi-P caps, aluminium bowls, container, easy peel-off ends and aluminium foil products...Read more.
Guangdong Betterlid Packaging Material Co.,Ltd. has joined ASI membership in order to achieve sustainable development and ensure the continuous and effective implementation of responsible production, responsible procurement and responsible corporate governance of the company’s aluminium packaging materials.
Dicastal UACJ Blov (Tianjin) Extrusion Corporation is a joint venture established at 2021 by recombination with CITIC Bohai Aluminum Industries Holding Co.,Ltd, CITIC DICASTAL Co.,Ltd and UACJ corporation. Combining the strengths of each shareholder, we aim to become a manufacturer with advanced technology, and provide customers with high-strength aluminium alloys for structures...Read more.
As a growing automotive extrusion supplier, we are committed to the development of aluminium and related alloys. We are committed to sustainable development. At the same time, we want to demonstrate our support for responsible aluminium production, sourcing and management.
Since 1983, At VAF Def-Aero Systems Private Limited we have over 40 years of experience in producing high-quality precision aluminium castings in India. We provide high-precision Defence Castings, Aerospace Castings, Gravity Die Castings, Sand Casting aluminium and Greensand casting for a broad range of performance-critical industries. Our castings deliver quality and durability that meet the demands of even....Read more.
Verdigris Strategic is a long-term investor and business transformation specialist that supports the successful, sustainable growth of industry, mining, metals and green energy assets and businesses. Verdigris builds partnerships to shape resilient businesses that deliver real benefit for investors, stakeholders and communities. Using capabilities and industry contacts developed over several decades...Read more.
I, Jay Hambro am CEO of Verdigris Strategic Limited and along with my wider team have operated extensively in the aluminium sector both organically and through M&A. I was largely responsible for the creation of ALVANCE, the low carbon aluminium champion for Europe. This included ALVANCE British Aluminium in Fort William (the last remaining aluminium smelter in the UK), ALVANCE Aluminium Dunkerque in France (the largest Aluminium smelter in Europe) and ALVANCE Aluminium Duffel in Belgium (a significant downstream Aluminium rolling business servicing the automotive and industrial sector).
Verdigris Strategic is delighted to both join and support the good work of the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI). Verdigris Strategic has a range of touchpoints in the global aluminium industry as a strategic advisor and investor. We believe ASI plays a vital role in ensuring the importance of aluminium as an infinitely recyclable metal and is promoted alongside the standards of operations required in today’s world.
– Jay Hambro, CEO
Find more information on Verdigris Strategic Limited on their ASI Member page in the General Supporters Class.
INNOVATION New Material Technology Co., Ltd.
Innovation New Material Technology Co., Ltd. (600361.SH) is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of aluminium alloy materials, with production output over 4.22 million tons in 2022. We’re expanding our global presence and have production bases across China (Shandong, Jiangsu, Inner Mongolia, Yunnan), Vietnam and Mexico. After years of R&D, we have constructed a strong product portfolio including aluminium billets, flat-rolled-products, extrusion profiles, rods and cables, and structural components...Read more.
We are forging the future of aluminium, pioneering a path to a brighter human society by championing renewable energy, harnessing the power of recycled aluminium, and investing in cutting-edge technologies. We aim to be a leader in the low-carbon economy and stand out as a premier global provider of environmentally friendly aluminium. Teaming up with ASI, we eagerly anticipate an exhilarating journey of advancement, collaboration, and the transformation of the aluminium industry into a beacon of sustainability and responsibility.
Design and manufacture of rolled semi-products of aluminium and its alloys. Design and manufacture of refined packaging aluminium foils and flexible materials. Manufacture of aluminium cast plates...Read more.
ALINVEST is proud to join the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI). With this step, we confirm our commitment to promote sustainability throughout the aluminium value chain. ASI membership and certification brings benefits to the aluminium industry and aluminium users and ALINVEST hereby demonstrates its commitment to comply with social, environmental and ethical standards.
– Ing. David Bečvář, Chairman of the Board of Directors
Find more information on ALINVEST Břidličná on their ASI Member page in the Production and Transformation Class.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Upcoming ASI Secretariat event participation
ASI Secretariat members regularly participate at events with in-person or virtual presentations. Additional details on dates, times, content and how to join the sessions are published on our events page as soon as they are available.
CRU World Aluminium Conference 2024, 14-16 May, 2024, London, UK. ASI's participation in the program is under development. More information on the event website.
In the world's shift toward sustainability, aluminium stands as a vital material aiding multiple industries in their decarbonization efforts. Its significance in a circular economy is clear. However, the aluminium industry continues to grapple with the need to reduce its carbon footprint, and the implementation of solutions must acknowledge and address impacts on Indigenous communities.
In this new Member Story, Marc Banks, Group ESG & Risk Manager of CAPRAL Limited talks about their implementation of integrated management systems, strengthened supplier and customer engagement, increased confidence in their assurance process and risk assessment methodology, and achieving a sustainable future based on data. 
Magna International has achieved ASI Performance Standard V3 (2022) Certification Design and manufacture of transmissions, powertrain systems and components at its Magna PT s.r.o Kechnec, Slovakia Powertrain facility. 
Nanjing Yunhai Aluminum Co., Ltd. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Baowu Magnesium Industry. Its predecessor was Nanjing Yunhai Special Metals Co., Ltd. It was listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange in 2007. The company is a high-tech enterprise that integrates... 
Aluminium semi-fabrication is provided by our aluminium Rolled Products and Extrusions business located in South Africa. We supply to customers across South Africa, Africa and the world, focusing on specific product and end-use markets. As the only major
Guangdong Betterlid Packaging Material Co.,Ltd. was founded in 2012. We are the leading and professional manufacturers of aluminium packaging materials and an integrated solutions supplier. We have been focusing on the production, processing, research and development of aluminium packaging materials which are widely used for easy-open ends, aluminium tabs, screw caps, Maxi-P caps, aluminium bowls, container, easy peel-off ends and aluminium foil products
Dicastal UACJ Blov (Tianjin) Extrusion Corporation is a joint venture established at 2021 by recombination with CITIC Bohai Aluminum Industries Holding Co.,Ltd, CITIC DICASTAL Co.,Ltd and UACJ corporation. Combining the strengths of each shareholder, we aim to become a manufacturer with advanced technology, and provide customers with high-strength aluminium alloys for structures
Verdigris Strategic is a long-term investor and business transformation specialist that supports the successful, sustainable growth of industry, mining, metals and green energy assets and businesses. Verdigris builds partnerships to shape resilient businesses that deliver real benefit for investors, stakeholders and communities. Using capabilities and industry contacts developed over several decades
Innovation New Material Technology Co., Ltd. (600361.SH) is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of aluminium alloy materials, with production output over 4.22 million tons in 2022. We’re expanding our global presence and have production bases across China (Shandong, Jiangsu, Inner Mongolia, Yunnan), Vietnam and Mexico. After years of R&D, we have constructed a strong product portfolio including aluminium billets, flat-rolled-products, extrusion profiles, rods and cables, and structural components
Design and manufacture of rolled semi-products of aluminium and its alloys. Design and manufacture of refined packaging aluminium foils and flexible materials. Manufacture of aluminium cast plates
