Alba CEO emphasises sustainability

MANAMA: Alba, the world’s largest aluminium smelter ex-China with a production of more than 1.35 metric tonnes per annum (mtpa), has emphasised sustainability at the Virtual International Aluminium Conference 2020.

Ali Al Baqali, the chief executive of Alba, was a key speaker at the Fastmarkets-organised three-day conference, that ended on Wednesday.

Mr Al Baqali featured alongside the CEOs of leading global aluminium producers in the executive panel on Tuesday.

This session focused on current issues faced by the aluminium industry including Covid-19 – impacts, actions, expectations; aluminium fundamentals – macro backdrop, end-use industries.

As one of the panelists, the Alba CEO highlighted the smelter’s response strategy to Covid-19 and lessons learnt, as well as the company’s focus in respect to safety, efficient operations and lean cost structure.

During the CEO Fireside Chat, Mr Al Baqali said, “Sustainability is not only about being a green smelter, it is also about going above and beyond to give back to our community in terms of environment protection, social responsibility and governance.”

“To accelerate our sustainable transformation, we have carried-out many initiatives to include building the Spent Pot Lining (SPL) Treatment Plant – the first of its kind in GCC, which upon completion in 2021, will transform SPL into value-products for industries while ensuring zero waste; investing in the Fish Farm Project at Alba’s calciner and marine operations; and conducting feasibility studies to instal solar panels in Alba parking area to generate power and there will be more to come,” he added.

Held annually, the conference is a platform for aluminium producers and end-users to connect for potential growth opportunities as well as share their views on the industry.

Source: http://www.gdnonline.com/Details/872878