Rio Tinto launches sustainability label for aluminium
February 12, 2021
International metal and mining corporation Rio Tinto, headquartered in London, UK, has launched a new concept for transparency and traceability in the aluminium industry with its new programme, START.
The company refers to this venture as a ‘nutritional label’ for responsible aluminium, with customers receiving a digital sustainability label, via a secure blockchain, displaying information about the site where the aluminium was produced, covering ten criteria: carbon footprint, water use, recycled content, energy sources, community investment, safety performance, diversity in leadership, business integrity, regulatory compliance and transparency.
START will help companies meet consumer demand for transparency on where and how the products they purchase are made, allowing end-users to make more informed decisions about the products they buy.
“START is a significant step forward for the aluminium industry as the first offering of this kind, setting a new standard on transparency, traceability and responsible production from mine to market. Our vision is that our customers can showcase the sustainability of the aluminium they purchase from Rio Tinto to their consumers, delivering full value from our responsible production,” stated Alf Barrios, CEO.
Through the programme, Rio Tinto also aims to provide technical expertise through a sustainability advisory service and support for customers looking to build their sustainability offerings and benchmark and improve performance, while supporting sourcing goals and access to green financing.
The START sustainability label is now globally available for aluminium purchased from Rio Tinto’s managed operations.
