RUSAL is promoting the integration of low-carbon and recycled aluminum within Azerbaijan's construction sector. The company claims these materials can extend building lifespans to 80 years while reducing long-term maintenance costs and carbon footprints. This initiative aligns with goals discussed at the WUF13 forum in Baku, focusing on creating more resilient and sustainable urban infrastructure through the use of infinitely recyclable materials.
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80 year lifespan is a bold claim. Aluminum is great for durability, but the actual lifecycle depends on the fasteners and seals, not just the metal. I want to see the specific system specs before believing the maintenance costs actually drop.
The real question is whether Azerbaijan has the procurement rules to favor low-carbon aluminum over cheaper, high-carbon imports. Without a carbon tax or a green mandate in the building code, the economic feasibility is just talk.
Low carbon aluminum usually means it was smelted using hydro or renewables. Does RUSAL have the energy certificates to prove the carbon intensity of the specific batches headed to Baku, or is this just general branding?
Basically, RUSAL is pitching recycled aluminum for Baku's new infrastructure. It is a good move for circularity, but the article is light on the actual volume of material being deployed.
