The European aluminium industry considers that a close relationship with its stakeholders is a source of improvement and progress for sustainable development. This is why the European Aluminium Association (EAA) regularly meets with its stakeholders, either individually, during interviews or other one–to-one dialogue initiatives. The discussions focus on issues of common interest such as the benefits of aluminium in our day-to-day lives, energy use, climate change, recycling, research and market development.
 
 

Food contact

Within the Aluminium in Contact with Food (ACF) working group at the EAA, one of the objectives for 2004 was to enhance the dialogue along the supply chain. This involved liaising directly with many of our customers with regard to traceability, functional barrier, and the various studies underway. Through a joint industry working group, we have developed a traceability guideline which will be published as a Guideline by the European Commission (Directorate General Health and Consumers). This involved the careful coordination and verification within our member companies and along the value chain. We have also increased our dialogue with the European Commission by demonstrating best practise within our industry. These activities are continuous and we encourage our member companies to reinforce our key messages with all stakeholders with regard to food contact issues and the benefits of aluminium within this area.

In 2004, exchanges with all relevant stakeholders (consumer organisations, administrations, academics,…) were organised in France on a one to one basis. The objective was to share opinions on the conclusions of the report on aluminium in food, water and health product issued by the French food and health safety authorities.

Sustainable Production

The European Commission - Directorate General Enterprise - is planning a Communication on Sustainable Production to coincide with the delivery of the position on Resources Strategy and Corporate Social Responsibility. Aluminium has been listed together with other three sectors as candidate participant in more detailed discussions on Sustainable Production. The intention is to take up projects of joint interest between industry and the European Commission. This requires input from both parties and, at the end of a two-year period, aims to build on results and create a model for future initiatives.