Material Use and Recycling — Programs and Actions
Our primary approach to waste management is to reduce waste generation where possible. If waste generation is not preventable, we attempt to reuse the waste or make it practical for others to use. Similarly, we explore opportunities to use waste materials as raw materials in our processes where technically and economically feasible.
A regional committee made up of representatives from each of the Alcoa Canada Primary Metals facilities identifies and shares solutions to decrease landfilling.
The spent linings of electrolytic cells (pots) are the most significant waste generated by an aluminum smelter. In the last few years, we have been a leader in finding ways to transform these spent potlinings into a raw material for some industries or products useful to others. Alcoa also supplies spent potlinings to several cement manufacturers worldwide, which use them as a fuel source or as a mineralizer.
In Québec, a regional team is dedicated to finding solutions to reuse this waste product with a view to sustainable development and taking into account regional distinctions.
Casthouse dross is a main by-product of the smelting process. Made up in good part of aluminum, it is recycled by external suppliers, who extract the aluminum content and recycle or landfill the remaining waste products. In 2008, one of our suppliers had to cease operations, which resulted in an increase in the amount of waste products landfilled. We are currently reviewing alternatives that will enable us to recycle as much of these waste products as possible.
ICI ON RECYCLE
The Québec government has established a recognition program called "ICI ON RECYCLE " (“HERE WE RECYCLE”) to encourage stakeholders to achieve the goals of its policy on waste management regarding metals, paper and cardboard, wood, plastics, and perishable goods. All four Alcoa Canada Primary Metals facilities and the head office in Montreal are certified under this program.
To facilitate the increased involvement of industries, businesses and institutions in the ICI ON RECYCLE! program, Recyc-Québec modified it in 2007 to offer three levels of participation. Our four plants are already well positioned for classification at the highest level, known as the Performance level, when their certification is renewed in 2009. Moreover, Alcoa has committed to setting up new programs, notably in the areas of textiles and composting, and to promoting ICI ON RECYCLE! among its clients.
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Material Use and Recycling
Learn more about Alcoa’s material use and recycling programs around the world.
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