The Eco-Recycling Facility – A Romanian sustainable aluminium waste recycling initiative
About this good practice
As waste generation continues to grow annually, ALRO's increased focus on waste management highlights a commitment to both environmental responsibility and enhancing quality of life. ALRO’s sustainable development strategy focuses on protecting the environment through responsible waste management, programs to reduce water, electricity and natural gas consumption, as well as programs to reduce CO2 emissions associated with aluminium production, in accordance with the requirements in force.
With the aim of shifting away from the use of primary aluminium toward the use of scrap material inputs, the company launched in 2013 the Eco-Recycling Facility, that enabled the company to handle and process large volumes of aluminium waste with various specifications. The plant consisted of one double chamber furnace, one induction furnace, one holding furnace, and a related fume collection and treatment plant.
In 2023, ALRO took a significant step toward advancing its recycling capabilities with the development of the Eco-Recycling Facility. The addition of two double-chamber furnaces, a holding furnace, and a dedicated fume collection and treatment plant underscored ALRO's commitment to expanding its recycling operations.
The Eco-Recycling Facility’s stakeholder network is extensive (customers, suppliers, partners, trade unions, associations, employees, local community) and reflects ALRO's commitment to a collaborative approach in advancing sustainable practices.
Resources needed
The company invested $11 million in technology and environmental protection at its Eco-Recycling Facility, marking a strategic advancement in sustainable aluminium production. This investment facilitated the increase in the amount of recycled and remelted aluminium scrap to 100,000 tons per year.
Evidence of success
The investments made at the Eco-Recycling Facility, enhanced the company in taking an important step into a low emission world, as it plans to constantly increase its aluminium scrap recycling capacity.
The specific electricity consumption of aluminium scrap recycling was reduced with 95% than the consumption recorded for electrolytic aluminium production, which positively impacted the overall production costs — while also contributing to a circular and low-carbon economy.
Potential for learning or transfer
ALRO’s intensive recycling of aluminium scrap is a powerful example of how industrial processes can be reimagined to prioritize environmental and economic sustainability. By diverting large amounts of aluminium scrap from landfills, ALRO not only mitigates waste accumulation but also lessens the environmental strain associated with raw material extraction and processing. This approach bolsters the local economy by creating a stable demand for recyclable materials, supporting local suppliers, and fostering regional economic growth.
As one of the largest aluminium producers in Central and Eastern Europe, ALRO’s initiatives position it as a model for companies across Romania and Europe, illustrating that profitability can go hand-in-hand with environmental stewardship. By adopting similar recycling practices, other European regions have the potential to enhance their environmental performance, reduce industrial waste, and contribute to a more sustainable European economy.
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