Aluminium Day (13th March) is an annual event aimed at celebrating the versatility of aluminium and to encourage innovation and knowledge sharing within the manufacturing, engineering and wider construction sectors.
Now in its fifth iteration, this year’s theme focuses on skills gaps and seeks to identify the new generation of students, recruits’ trainees and apprentices who are together helping shape the future of the industry.
In the lead up to the event, we reached out to ALFED members from across the aluminium supply chain to find out the key trends we should be watching out for, what obstacles we’re facing and what opportunities lie ahead for the industry.
1. Carbon Emissions:
Carbon emissions reduction has emerged as a paramount concern integrated into business models across various supply chains, particularly in manufacturing and heavy industry sectors.
The introduction of mandatory emissions reporting under the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and the ongoing development of the UK’s counterpart highlight the industry’s heightened focus on environmental sustainability.
With UK carbon prices at an all-time low, businesses are exploring innovative yet cost-effective strategies to mitigate emissions while enhancing social license to operate.
Aluminium’s inherent recyclability and role in the circular economy position it as a sustainable solution, significantly reducing environmental impacts compared to conventional materials.
2. Green-shoring:
“Green-shoring” represents the UK aluminium industry’s strategic approach to emissions reduction, prioritising sustainability in manufacturing location decisions.
By retaining aluminium within domestic value chains, the industry aims to minimise emissions, strengthen supply chain resilience, and reduce reliance on imports. With substantial economic losses attributed to downcycling and export, the UK has a unique opportunity to lead in low-carbon aluminium production.
To realise this potential, innovative projects require governmental and industrial support, alongside investments in infrastructure.
3. Green Skills:
While emissions reduction and green-shoring offer promising prospects, addressing the prevailing green skills gap remains imperative for the UK to establish itself as a global leader in green aluminium production. ALFED members unanimously acknowledge the skills shortage within the industry and advocate for targeted initiatives to attract and train young talent. From apprenticeship programs focusing on gender diversity to specialised training in metal finishing, efforts are underway to engage younger demographics and foster a skilled workforce. Collaborative endeavours with educational institutions and organisations are crucial in nurturing talent and inspiring future generations to pursue careers in aluminium manufacturing.
As we celebrate Aluminium Day, the industry stands poised to embrace these trends, leveraging innovation, sustainability, and talent development to propel itself towards a prosperous and sustainable future.
Through collective action and unwavering commitment, ALFED Members are poised to lead the charge in shaping a greener, more resilient industry landscape.
For more information about ALFED, or to become a member, please visit: www.alfed.org.uk.