From Waste Generation to Value Creation
ABOUT IT
CBA implemented a comprehensive strategy of waste management, The first step consisted of classifying the waste streams into distinct groups based on their composition, allowing for the identification of opportunities for value creation in the market.
For the group of residues containing dry and wet alumina, two internal processes were developed. At the refinery, the dry alumina underwent a grinding process that enabled the recovery of the alumina, eliminating the need for disposal in the tailings dam. As for the wet alumina, a drying process was implemented in the gas scrubbers, which was then combined with another similar residue, resulting in a co-product ideal for the cement industry.
Another waste stream, containing calcium carbonate, underwent a series of tests in partnership with universities and industries, aiming to identify suitable applications for the material. The co-product obtained promising results in agricultural applications, such as in the production of limestone, in addition to being used in water treatment and concrete manufacturing.
One of the main challenges faced by CBA was SPL waste, which presented high disposal costs and significant environmental aspects. To deal with this waste stream, the operational procedure was modified, allowing segregation into different fractions, such as oxides, baths, refractories, and carbon-containing parts. This approach enabled several innovative solutions, including internal reuse, commercialization, and recycling.
In addition to the aforementioned groups, the company conducted a financial feasibility study to evaluate internal sorting and baling operations for recyclables in the selective collection process. The positive results of this study led to the implementation of these operations, increasing the value of recyclables and reinforcing the company's commitment to environmental sustainability. As for non-recyclable waste, a new destination was established, converting it into fuel for cement kilns instead of sending it to landfills.
In partnership with other industry segments, a pilot project is being developed to transform bauxite residue into a co-product. The goal is to extract the valuable elements present in this material and use them in new applications. This initiative is an important step for CBA to achieve its goal of eliminating waste disposal in dams by 2030 and contributing to a more circular economy.
Results and Objectives
Since 2018, CBA has been developing activities related to co-products through a strategy based on six pillars: management of roles and responsibilities; decision-making; suppliers and customers; indicators, systems and infrastructure; increasing the portfolio of marketable co-products; and seeking opportunities. Since then, the portfolio of marketable co-products has grown significantly, representing 33% of the waste generated by CBA, with an increase of 272.4% in revenue compared to 2022.
In 2023, CBA generated over 1.4 million tons of waste, most of which was classified as non-hazardous waste. More than half of this waste was destined for some type of processing (51%), and 41% of the total volume generated was destined for local storage. The remaining 8% was sent for recycling, co-processing, agricultural use, and other types of disposal not mentioned previously. The largest volume generated is associated with bauxite residue, equivalent to 699,000 tons in the year and currently disposed of in dams. One of the goals included in the Company's ESG 2030 Strategy is to completely eliminate the disposal of this residue in dams.
The company's waste management strategy has produced significant positive results:
• Reducing waste disposal costs;
• Increased revenue from sales of co-products, which in 2023 represented an increase of 272.4% compared to 2022, becoming profitable in relation to the costs of generation, handling, preparation and disposal;
• Improved environmental performance through the reduction of waste disposed of in landfills or dams.
Considering the goals of CBA's ESG 2030 Strategy, this figure could reach more than 1 million tons per year by the end of this decade.
SDGs
External Certification
No
International Commitments
National Commitments
National Solid Waste Policy (PNRS)
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