2. Aluminium and sustainability

After iron, aluminium is by far the most widely used metal in the world. This is because aluminium has a unique combination of attractive properties. Many of these properties are important in our efforts to create a more sustainable society.

Low weight, high strength, superior malleability, ease of machining, excellent corrosion resistance and good thermal and electrical conductivity are among aluminium's most important properties. Aluminium is also widely recycled and used over again, which gives it vital environmental benefits.

Recycling aluminium uses just 5 percent of the energy that is required to produce primary aluminium and it reduces greenhouse gas emissions significantly.