Sustainability Examples

Looking to the Future
in Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean

Issues: Community Development, Industry Shifts
Stakeholders: NGOs, Government, Employees, Investors, Communities
Region: Canada

In 2003, Alcan announced the planned closure of the Arvida smelter, part of a long-term plan to phase out the use of Söderberg technology in favour of modern, environmentally advanced smelting technologies. Concurrently, Alcan launched a strategy for the diversification of the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean industrial base. The focus was on the output of value-added products and the delivery of services related to the aluminum industry, instead of relying only on the production of primary metal.

The strategy is built on:

•	Technological transfers within Alcan.
•	Continuous development of the region's capabilities in research, technology and engineering.
•	Growth of local companies and suppliers associated with the production of primary aluminum.
•	Support for the local entrepreneurs who get involved in aluminum fabrication.

As part of the strategy, Alcan initiated the creation of a committee of regional stakeholders in support of industrial diversification. With a mandate to promote a business-friendly climate and the necessary infrastructures to attract new investment, the committee evaluates and selects ideas, technologies and projects that will lead to a successful diversification program.

Examples of Alcan's diversification from primary smelting operations include:

•	The announcement in September 2003 of the construction of a new fabrication plant in the Saguenay region that will produce structural aluminum components for the automotive industry.
•	In October 2003, the Company unveiled plans to build a Spent Pot Lining treatment plant based on the LCLL process developed by our Arvida Research and Development Center (ARDC).
•	The creation of an Alcan Office of Economic Diversification to provide a focus on consistent and strategic support to the local economies in which we operate.