The aluminium industry plays a crucial role in the energy transition and is an important part of the German economy. With over 62,000 employees and a turnover of over 24 billion euros in 2023, the industry is a major employer and economic factor. Aluminium is an indispensable material for numerous industries, including transport, construction, packaging and electrical engineering - without aluminium, many net-zero technologies would be unthinkable.
Common goals
The signatories have agreed on a number of goals:
- Climate-neutral production: the industry wants to actively work on the development of innovative technologies to reduce CO2 emissions in aluminium production and establish a climate-neutral value chain.
- Circular economy: The focus is on promoting the circular economy and the use of secondary raw materials in order to conserve resources and reduce the environmental impact.
- Social responsibility: Co-determination and collective bargaining are important components of the industry. The partners are committed to good working conditions and sustainable social security.
Call for clear framework conditions
The signatories call for clear framework conditions to support the transformation of industry towards climate-neutral production. This includes a stable energy supply, research funding and fair competitive conditions: The creation of a fair competitive environment at international level is essential to prevent ‘carbon leakage’.
Rob van Gils, President of Aluminium Germany, said: ‘As a key material for decarbonisation, aluminium is needed in large quantities to achieve our climate targets. Together with politicians and social partners, we are committed to ensuring that the German aluminium industry masters this challenge sustainably and competitively.’
