Alcoa announced that it is partnering with The Prince’s Rainforests Project an environmental initiative started by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales to protect the rainforests and tackle climate change. Alcoa joins with corporate, NGOs and other groups to support Prince Charles’ action to protect rainforests in advance of the international climate change meeting hosted by the United Nations in Copenhagen this December.
Alcoa is aligned with and supports the Prince’s Rainforests Project’s dedication to further understanding that rainforests are critical for the planet’s survival as they regulate rainfall, preserve biodiversity, and store vast amounts of carbon.
Mr Frank Feder Alcoa VP and President of Latin America and Caribbean said that “Alcoa is committed to delivering on both the business efficiency and the stewardship of the Amazon region.” Mr Feder oversaw the development of the Juruti Project, part of an Alcoa USD 2.2 billion investment in Brazil which includes a mine, port and railroad in the Amazon.
He said that “When we began this project, we declared that we will mine bauxite and return the area to the same, if not better, condition that when we initially arrived. We believe no amount of deforestation is acceptable and revegetation is the key. We will plant 15 million trees over 50 years to ensure that mined areas will be totally revegetated with native species.”
In addition to the revegetation of the area, Alcoa is aiding the sustainable development of the Juruti region, including supporting infrastructure projects such as hospitals, schools, roads and water wells and investing in the people of Juruti through training programs.
Mr Feder said that “At Alcoa, we’re proud to be part of The Prince’s Rainforests Project as a positive example of sustainable development in the rainforest.”
The PRP launched its Rainforest SOS campaign on September 30th 2009. The campaign will culminate at a major rainforest event to be hosted by Prince Charles in November. This event will include key leaders, NGO directors and leading figures from the business community.
