Synopsis:
The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) delves into the greenhouse gas emissions of U.S. steel and aluminum industries, with insights from ISRI and the Aluminum Association highlighting the role of recycled materials in carbon reduction. The Aluminum industry commits to transparent tracking of emission-cutting endeavors, in harmony with sustainability goals.
Article:
In tandem with the U.S. Trade Representative's request, the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) initiated a groundbreaking investigation titled "Greenhouse Gas Emissions Intensities of the U.S. Steel and Aluminum Industries at the Product Level" in July. This in-depth exploration aims to accurately gauge the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions intensity in U.S. steel and aluminum production, involving a comprehensive survey of domestic facilities.
Testimonies during the Dec. 7 USITC hearing from the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI) and the Aluminum Association spotlighted the pivotal role of recycled materials in combatting climate change. ISRI emphasized the significant contribution of the U.S. recycled materials industry to climate change mitigation, providing renewable materials to manufacturers, reducing energy consumption, and lowering carbon emissions.
ISRI Assistant Vice President Adam Shaffer highlighted the infinite recyclability of steel and aluminum, underlining their sustainability. Nearly 70% of U.S. steel incorporates recycled content, and 80% of U.S. aluminum is produced using recycled aluminum.
Charles Johnson, President, and CEO of the Aluminum Association echoed this sentiment, stating, "There is no green energy transition without materials like aluminum." He emphasized the substantial domestic investment in the U.S. aluminum industry, showcasing its commitment to sustainability.
Johnson called for three key actions by the USITC, focusing on an effective approach to collecting relevant GHG emissions data, minimizing the burden on affected facilities, and incorporating an accurate understanding of aluminum flows through processing systems.
Over the past three decades, the Aluminum Association celebrated a 50% reduction in the carbon impact of North American aluminum production, attributing this positive trend to technological advancements, efficiency improvements, and the transition from coal-fired to renewable electricity.
Pledging transparency, the Aluminum Association committed to tracking and reporting member companies' ambition and progress in greenhouse gas reductions. This initiative aligns with the industry's commitment to sustainability and was launched in coordination with the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 28) in the United Arab Emirates.
Conclusion:
The USITC's investigation unfolds as a crucial step in understanding and addressing the environmental impact of U.S. steel and aluminum industries. Insights from industry representatives accentuate the role of recycled materials in the quest for sustainability. The Aluminum Association's commitment to transparency and reduction initiatives aligns with global goals for a greener future, signaling a collective industry effort to enhance eco-friendly practices.
