Local sustainability fellows inspired to make change

(L-R) Alcoa’s Simon Bilsbury and Caitlin Bayliss travelled to the Pyrenees Mountains to help research climate change as Alcoa Earthwatch Fellows.

‘Doing something, even if it’s small, is better than doing nothing,’ is the message Caitlin Bayliss of Mandurah and Simon Bilsbury of Warnbro are keen to share since returning from a climate change research project in the Pyrenees Mountains of Andorra.

The two were among eight Alcoa employees from around the world selected to take part in the week-long environmental expedition, a partnership between the Earthwatch Institute and the Alcoa Foundation.

The Alcoa Earthwatch Fellows worked alongside professional scientists to study tree growth and condition, birds, small mammals and insects, as well as monitoring wildlife cameras hidden in the woods. The research is designed to help scientists and local organisations better manage the already fragile environment of the Pyrenees and ease the impacts of climate change.

Both Caitlin, a Health and Safety Consultant, and Paul a Process Operator from the company’s Pinjarra Refinery, returned with a new-found appreciation for the importance of implementing environmental solutions wherever possible and educating others.

“We all contribute to climate change, but we also have the power to make changes and better decisions,” Caitlin said.

“It can be as simple as reducing your waste at home by having a compost bin, reducing your meat consumption, sourcing sustainable foods, having a vegetable garden, recycling correctly, choosing products that aren’t wrapped in plastic and reducing your shower time.”

Simon and Caitlin described the experience as unforgettable and inspiring and encourage others to apply.

“It’s an incredible experience travelling to a unique part of the world and being involved in world-changing research that impacts people and our planet,” Caitlin said.

Alcoa of Australia Chairman and Managing Director Michael Parker said Alcoa takes its environmental responsibility seriously, which was demonstrated by its listing on the United Nations Global 500 Roll of Honour for its excellence in environmental rehabilitation.

Since 2003, 290 Alcoa employees from 24 countries have contributed more than 14,000 hours of research, which Earthwatch uses to inform sustainable solutions.

To learn more, visit www.alcoa.com/foundation/en/partnerships-programs/earthwatch-fellowship-program.asp.

Alcoa's Australian operations represent one of the world's largest integrated bauxite mining, alumina refining and aluminium smelting systems. In Western Australia, it operates two bauxite mines and three alumina refineries adding significant value to the local, state and national economies.

ENDS

Media contact

Cheri Tiglias, Corporate Affairs and Communications Advisor, cheri.tiglias@alcoa.com

Editor’s note

Alcoa of Australia (Alcoa) has a proud history in Australia which it hopes to continue by remaining internationally competitive, attracting ongoing investment and providing jobs for future generations.

• Alcoa has been contributing to Australia’s economy since 1963, investing more than
  $12 billion over 56 years.
• More than 65 per cent of Alcoa’s total annual revenue stays in Australia through wages, local purchasing, taxes, royalties, capital investment and dividends to Australian shareholders.
• Alcoa employs more than 4,275 people in Australia. About 3,750 live in WA.
• In our 56 years, Alcoa has taken on more than 2000 apprentices, trainees and graduates.
• Alcoa invested $1.7 billion with Australian suppliers in 2017.
• Alcoa paid $654 million in Australian wages, salaries and associated benefits in 2017.
• Alcoa paid $400 million in State, Federal and Local government taxes and royalties in 2017.

Alcoa made $4.2 million in community contributions in 2017.

About Alcoa

Alcoa (NYSE: AA) is a global industry leader in bauxite, alumina and aluminum products, with a strong portfolio of value-added cast and rolled products and substantial energy assets. Alcoa is built on a foundation of strong values and operating excellence dating back nearly 130 years to the world-changing discovery that made aluminum an affordable and vital part of modern life. Since developing the aluminum industry, and throughout our history, our talented employees have followed on with breakthrough innovations and best practices that have led to efficiency, safety, sustainability and stronger communities wherever we operate. Visit us online on www.alcoa.com, follow @Alcoa on Twitter and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Alcoa.