Emissions
We closely control the air emissions we generate, using modern discharge treatment technology and a highly robust environmental compliance tracking system. We also share best practices to ensure that all of our operating locations minimize their potential impact on the environment.
Our greenhouse gas emissions reduction commitments
In 1998, Alcoa created a Climate Change Strategy Team that developed and promoted our position on this issue. A target was set of 25% fewer greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2010 compared to 1990 levels. We achieved that goal in 2003. A new long-term, worldwide goal was set by Alcoa in 2009, namely to reduce the intensity of direct and indirect emissions by 20% in 2020 and by 30% in 2030 from a 2005 baseline.
Click here to learn about Alcoa’s commitment to climate change.
In June 2002, Alcoa Canada Global Primary Products became the first company to sign a voluntary agreement with the Government of Québec to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. All the targets set in this agreement have been reached. A second greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction agreement was signed in December 2008 for the 2008-2012 period. At the end of 2010, our total GHG emissions had declined by close to 31% compared to 2001, while the intensity of emissions per ton of aluminum decreased by 28%.
Sharing best practices
Our technical teams share best practices so we can achieve our GHG emission reduction targets. Efforts focus primarily on controlling anodic effects in the electrolysis sector to reduce perfluorocarbon (PFC) emissions. The latter are closely monitored across the organization through a detailed monthly report that presents each plant’s results compared to established targets. Our total PFC emissions decreased by 72% compared to the base year of 2001.
Alcoa is researching the development of inert anodes for use in aluminum smelting, which would eliminate GHG production. There remain numerous technical and cost challenges to overcome before this innovation can be achieved.
Control at the source of fluoride and particulate emissions in the manufacturing process
All Alcoa Canada Global Primary Products aluminum smelters are equipped with high-performance dry scrubbers to capture and treat fluoride and dust emissions in the anode manufacturing and electrolysis sectors. Our facilities are also equipped with numerous dust collectors (with leak detectors) to reduce dust emissions during the handling of raw materials and various stages of the manufacturing process.
Regular inspections are conducted to assure that this equipment is in peak working order. In the electrolysis sector, the pot hoods are checked to ensure maximum emissions are directed toward the scrubbers. The integrity of the bath cover is also inspected, as it plays a key role in minimizing emissions at the source. The ongoing installation of curved pot hoods will further improve the air tightness of the pots.
A working committee was created in 2010 to better assess the strengths and weaknesses of each of our facilities when it comes to fluoride emissions, and to stimulate synergies within the region that will prompt reductions. An audit of related practices was conducted at each smelter, followed by the development of individually tailored action plans.
Continuous monitoring of emissions
Emissions are monitored at the outlet of the scrubbers as well as at the roof vents outside several of the pot rooms. The impact of emissions is also measured at several sampling points in the surrounding area.
Thanks to these rigorous measures to monitor emissions and reduce them at the source, we can meticulously report on our progress in air emissions and air quality.
In 2008, Alcoa signed an environmental performance agreement with the Government of Québec as part of its project to modernize the Baie-Comeau Smelter.
