Introduction

The manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals sector is an essential industry that plays a significant role in the global economy. However, it is also a sector that contributes significantly to carbon emissions, which have adverse effects on the environment. Decarbonisation in this sector is, therefore, crucial to mitigate the impact of climate change. This article will explore what decarbonisation in the manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals sector entails, why it is important, the main sources of carbon emissions, how to reduce these emissions, the challenges facing decarbonisation, and the implications of decarbonisation for the sector.

What is Decarbonisation in the Manufacture of Basic Precious and Other Non-Ferrous Metals Sector, and Why is it Important?

Decarbonisation refers to the process of reducing or eliminating carbon emissions from industrial processes, transportation, and energy production. In the manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals sector, decarbonisation involves reducing carbon emissions from the production of metals such as gold, silver, platinum, and copper. This sector is a significant contributor to carbon emissions, with estimates indicating that it accounts for about 2% of global carbon emissions (International Energy Agency, 2018).

Decarbonisation is important in this sector for several reasons. Firstly, it is crucial in mitigating the impact of climate change. Carbon emissions from this sector contribute to the greenhouse effect, which causes global warming, leading to climate change. Decarbonisation, therefore, helps to reduce the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, which is essential in mitigating climate change. Secondly, decarbonisation is essential in meeting the global target of limiting global warming to below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, as stipulated in the Paris Agreement. This target requires significant reductions in carbon emissions from all sectors, including the manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals sector.

Main Sources of Carbon Emissions in the Manufacture of Basic Precious and Other Non-Ferrous Metals Sector

The manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals sector is a carbon-intensive industry, with several sources of carbon emissions. The main sources of carbon emissions in this sector include:

1. Energy Use: The manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals sector is an energy-intensive industry, with energy use accounting for a significant proportion of carbon emissions. Energy is required for various processes, including mining, transportation, and processing of metals.
2. Fuel Combustion: Fuel combustion is another significant source of carbon emissions in this sector. The use of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas for energy generation and transportation leads to the release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
3. Chemical Reactions: Chemical reactions involved in the production of metals such as aluminum, copper, and zinc also contribute to carbon emissions. For instance, the production of aluminum involves the electrolysis of alumina, which results in the release of carbon dioxide.
4. Waste Disposal: The disposal of waste products from the manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals sector also contributes to carbon emissions. Waste products such as slag and tailings are usually disposed of in landfills, which emit methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

How to Reduce Carbon Emissions in the Manufacture of Basic Precious and Other Non-Ferrous Metals Sector

Reducing carbon emissions in the manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals sector is essential in mitigating the impact of climate change. There are several ways in which carbon emissions can be reduced in this sector, including:

1. Use of Renewable Energy: The use of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower can significantly reduce carbon emissions in the manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals sector. Renewable energy can be used to power mining operations, transportation, and processing of metals, reducing the reliance on fossil fuels.
2. Energy Efficiency: Improving energy efficiency in the manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals sector can also reduce carbon emissions. This can be achieved through the use of energy-efficient equipment, better insulation, and the optimization of processes to reduce energy consumption.
3. Carbon Capture and Storage: Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a technology that captures carbon dioxide emissions from industrial processes and stores them underground. CCS can be used in the manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals sector to capture carbon dioxide emissions from chemical reactions and fuel combustion.
4. Recycling: Recycling of metals is another way to reduce carbon emissions in the manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals sector. Recycling reduces the need for mining and processing of new metals, which are energy-intensive processes that contribute to carbon emissions.

Challenges Facing Decarbonisation in the Manufacture of Basic Precious and Other Non-Ferrous Metals Sector

Decarbonisation in the manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals sector faces several challenges, including:

1. High Capital Costs: The adoption of low-carbon technologies such as renewable energy and CCS requires significant capital investments, which may be a challenge for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the sector.
2. Technological Barriers: The manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals sector is a complex industry with several technological barriers to decarbonisation. For instance, the production of aluminum involves the use of high-temperature electrolysis, which is difficult to decarbonize.
3. Regulatory Barriers: The lack of supportive policies and regulations can hinder decarbonisation in the manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals sector. For instance, the absence of carbon pricing mechanisms may discourage investment in low-carbon technologies.
4. Supply Chain Challenges: The manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals sector is part of a complex global supply chain, which can pose challenges to decarbonisation. For instance, the mining of metals may occur in countries with weak environmental regulations, leading to high carbon emissions.

Implications of Decarbonisation for the Manufacture of Basic Precious and Other Non-Ferrous Metals Sector

Decarbonisation in the manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals sector has several implications, including:

1. Increased Competitiveness: Decarbonisation can enhance the competitiveness of companies in the sector by reducing energy costs and enhancing their reputation as environmentally responsible.
2. Job Creation: The adoption of low-carbon technologies can create new job opportunities in the manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals sector, particularly in the renewable energy sector.
3. Improved Environmental Performance: Decarbonisation can improve the environmental performance of the manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals sector by reducing carbon emissions and other environmental impacts.
4. Enhanced Access to Markets: Decarbonisation can enhance access to markets that require low-carbon products, such as the European Union's Green Deal.

Conclusion

The manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals sector is a significant contributor to carbon emissions, which have adverse effects on the environment. Decarbonisation in this sector is, therefore, crucial to mitigate the impact of climate change. Decarbonisation involves reducing carbon emissions from the production of metals such as gold, silver, platinum, and copper. The main sources of carbon emissions in this sector include energy use, fuel combustion, chemical reactions, and waste disposal. Reducing carbon emissions in the manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals sector can be achieved through the use of renewable energy, energy efficiency, carbon capture and storage, and recycling. Decarbonisation in this sector faces several challenges, including high capital costs, technological barriers, regulatory barriers, and supply chain challenges. Decarbonisation in the manufacture of basic precious and other non-ferrous metals sector has several implications, including increased competitiveness, job creation, improved environmental performance, and enhanced access to markets.