Aluminium Bahrain (Alba), the world's leading aluminium smelter, has signed a MoU with Bahrain Center for Strategic, International and Energy Studies (Derasat) to advance its environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives in support of the kingdom’s sustainability goals.

 

This comes as part of its commitment to strengthening national partnerships for sustainable development, said a statement from Alba.

 

The agreement outlines joint efforts to enhance energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and balance economic and environmental priorities, it stated.

 

Key initiatives include a specialised research study to identify the optimal energy mix for Alba’s operations and the development of a unified ESG framework. A joint task force of experts from both organisations will lead these efforts, it added.

 

The agreement was signed today (August 27) at Derasat’s Awali headquarters by Alba CEO Ali Al Baqali and Derasat CEO Abdulla Mohamed Alahmed, in the presence of senior representatives from both entities.

 

Speaking on the occasion, Al Baqali said: "This MoU with Derasat is a testament to Alba’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation. By combining our industrial expertise with Derasat’s research capabilities, we are laying the groundwork for transformative ESG initiatives that will not only benefit Alba but also contribute to Bahrain’s national goals."

 

"Together, we aim to pioneer solutions in renewable energy and carbon reduction that are both economically viable and environmentally responsible," he stated.

 

Alahmed said this MoU reflects the duo's shared vision to strengthen research partnerships in energy and sustainability. 

 

"Through advanced mathematical modelling and scenario analysis conducted by our Artificial Intelligence and Renewable Energy Lab (AIRE Lab), we aim to deliver practical, data-driven solutions that support Bahrain’s long-term economic competitiveness and environmental goals," he added.

 

Alba said this collaboration, aligned with Bahrain’s net-zero 2060 commitment, marks a significant milestone in its ESG journey. 

 

This reinforces the value of strategic partnerships in driving sustainable industrial growth, advancing research, and delivering long-term benefits to the local community, it added.-TradeArabia News Service