Biodiversity — Programs and Actions
Monitoring Vegetation and Forage
An independent inspector examines the vegetation around our aluminum smelters in Québec. The goal is to make sure that the fluoride emissions from the smelters do not negatively affect the vegetation around them. Dental exams are also performed every three years on dairy cows that graze on the agricultural lands surrounding the Deschambault Smelter. From its start-up, the smelter entered into an agreement with the Union des producteurs agricoles (Farmer’s Union) regarding its environmental monitoring program. The concentration of fluorides in forage crops is also monitored in the areas around the Bécancour and Deschambault smelters.
In 2007, Alcoa joined forced with the Québec-Labrador Foundation and Ducks Unlimited by funding an internship on the value of wetlands in urban areas.
10 Million Trees
On Earth Day in June 2003, recognizing the essential role that trees play in the biosphere, Alcoa pledged to plant 10 million trees around the world. Alcoa Canada Primary Metals has made its contribution by distributing, to date, almost 54,000 trees and shrubs, including 7,000 in 2008.
Earthwatch Expeditions
By virtue of its support of the Earthwatch Institute, Alcoa can offer its employees the opportunity to participate in Earthwatch expeditions around the world. While contributing to the body of knowledge needed to build a sustainable future, this hands-on contribution to field research offers participants a rich opportunity for personal development, creates solid relationships between environmental organizations and industry, and increases awareness of and appreciation for the Earth's ecosystems.
Manicouagan-Uapishka World Biosphere Reserve
The creation of the new Manicouagan-Uapishka World Biosphere Reserve, within which the Baie-Comeau Smelter is located, was announced last fall during the Conférence sur l’énergie et le développement durable dans l’industrie de l’aluminium (Céddi-Al), an event organized by the Baie-Comeau Smelter along with partners from the sector. The creation of the reserve offers the possibility for new partnerships, which are currently under review.
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Earthwatch Diaries
Read the diaries of Alcoa employees participating in Earthwatch research projects around the world.
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Ten Million Trees
Learn more about Alcoa's Ten Million Trees program
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Click on 2008 activities photos to enlarge
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