Bauxite is an aluminium ore and the most important material in aluminium production. It is mainly formed by the weathering of silicate-rich rock in countries in the tropical belt. The biggest producers are Guinea, Australia and China.

Applications.

• Wrought and cast alloys for car bodies and drives
• Wheels

Risks.

• Human rights violations (including forced resettlements)
• Endangering the rights of local communities and indigenous peoples
• Contamination of soil, air, water and people by mining waste and dust emissions
• Deforestation and the associated loss of biodiversity
• Water consumption during extraction of bauxite
• Corruption and weak rule of law in certain countries
• Violation of workers’ rights, e.g. freedom of association 

Preventive measures.

• Involvement in a project group with other OEMs to mitigate ESG risks in Guinea
• Direct sourcing of ASI-certified (CoC) material
• Collaboration with suppliers along the value chain to:
  • Reduce the need for bauxite by increasing the aluminium recyclate rate
  • Reduce CO₂ emissions

Active involvement in initiatives.

Overarching policies and commitments