About Bauxite

Bauxite ore is the world’s primary source of aluminium. The ore must first be chemically processed to produce alumina (aluminium oxide). Alumina is then smelted using an electrolysis process to produce pure aluminium metal. Bauxite is typically found in topsoil located in various tropical and subtropical regions. The ore is acquired through environmentally responsible strip-mining operations. Bauxite reserves are most plentiful in Africa, Oceania and South America. Reserves are projected to last for centuries.

Aluminium must be refined from ore

Although aluminium is the most common metal found on Earth (totalling 8 percent of the planet’s crust), the metal is too reactive with other elements to occur naturally. Bauxite ore, refined through two processes, is the primary source of aluminium.

Land conservation is a key industry focus

An average of 80 percent of the land mined for bauxite is returned to its native ecosystem. Topsoil from the mining site is stored so it can be replaced during the rehabilitation process.

Reserves will last for centuries

Although demand for aluminium is increasing rapidly, bauxite reserves, currently estimated at 40 to 75 billion metric tons, are projected to last for centuries. Guinea and Australia have the two largest proven reserves.

A wealth of bauxite reserves

Vietnam may hold a wealth of bauxite. In November 2010, the prime minister of Vietnam announced the country’s bauxite reserves may total up to 11 billion tons.

Bauxite is usually found near the surface of terrain and can be strip-mined economically. The industry has taken a leadership role in environmental conservation efforts. When the land is cleared prior to mining, the topsoil is stored so it can be replaced during rehabilitation. During the strip-mining process, bauxite is broken up and taken out of the mine to an alumina refinery. Once mining is complete, the topsoil is replaced and the area undergoes a restoration process. When the ore is mined in forested areas, an average of 80 percent of the land is returned to its native ecosystem.

Environment Friendly:

Infinitely recyclable and highly durable, nearly 75 percent of all aluminium ever produced is still in use today. Aluminium is 100 percent recyclable and retains its properties indefinitely. Aluminium is one of the only materials in the consumer disposal stream that more than pays for the cost of its own collection.