Aluminum industry overview

　　Aluminum is one of the most versatile and sustainable materials for our dynamic global economy.

　　By 2020, the North American aluminum industry will be universally recognized as a world leader in providing innovative, material-based solutions that build on aluminum’s intrinsic sustainability and deliver superior value to users.

　　Since the industry first embarked on the vision and road mapping process in 1996, it has prepared several documents that have successfully coordinated basic R&D activities to benefit the entire industry. In addition to the original Aluminum Industry Technology Roadmap, the industry has developed five more sharply focused roadmaps that address alumina production, bauxite residue, inert anode technology, automotive applications, and applications of advanced ceramics.

　　This update of the roadmap for the new century lays out a strategic R&D plan designed to build on the inherent benefits of aluminum and attain the vision’s strategic goals. It focused primarily on the three goal areas that require technical solutions:

　　... Products and Markets

　　... Sustainability

　　... Energy and Resources

　　Attainment of the long-term goals in these areas will position the industry as a universally recognized technology leader. The Industry will be widely respected for its use of cutting-edge technology to create innovative products, improve the environment, and contribute to economic growth.