A new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Rio Tinto and transport and infrastructure provider, Volvo Group, has outlined a strategic partnership for low-carbon supplies and a goal of decarbonising operations.
The multi-materials partnership will allow Rio Tinto to progress sustainability commitments in its operations and supply chains. It will support Volvo Group in its ambition towards a net-zero future. The partnership aims to secure supplies of materials including lithium, low-carbon aluminium, copper, and metallics. Rio Tinto will also pilot Volvo Group’s sustainable autonomous hauling solutions.
Rio Tinto’s Chief Executive, Jakob Stausholm, said Rio Tinto was looking forward to the partnership.
“We look forward to partnering with Volvo to progress our contribution to a net-zero future, as we collaborate to deliver sustainable outcomes from the mine to the showroom floor,” Mr Stausholm said.
“We will be working together to support the decarbonisation of Rio Tinto’s operations and deliver low-carbon materials for use in Volvo’s innovative product range, including electric and autonomous vehicles.”
Volvo President and Chief Executive Officer, Martin Lundstedt, said the partnership would be a true collaboration which aimed to accelerate their ambitions towards a “fossil-free, decarbonised future”.
“By addressing the full value chain, from the use of low-carbon materials in our products, to providing our customers with sustainable autonomous hauling solutions, we can contribute to a better and more sustainable future,” Mr Lundstedt said.
The companies will work together to strengthen the supply of responsibly sourced low-carbon materials such as RenewAlTM aluminium, aluminium produced using the ELYSISTM zero-carbon smelting technology, Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI) certified aluminium and Copper Mark certified copper, and explore product development opportunities such as the supply of lithium for batteries.
