Patterns and features of embodied environmental flow networks in the international trade of metal resources: A study of aluminum

Abstract

This research analyzes the embodied environmental impacts in the global trade network of aluminum in 2020. To do so, we combine life cycle assessment with complex network analysis. The global trade of aluminum is subdivided into ores and concentrates, compounds, products, and waste. The end goal of this study is to identify the key countries of the aluminum trading network and to aid policymakers in creating sound trade policies that lower global environmental impacts. We find that the trade of highly processed products has limited influence on the trade of environmental impacts, while raw materials and metal scraps have a large contribution. Mainland China, India, Turkey, Germany, the United States, Spain, and Belgium are key intermediate countries and act as transferring hubs of environmental impacts from neighboring countries to emerging economies. To reduce the environmental impacts embedded in the trade of aluminum, we recommend for the key intermediate countries to monetize the embedded environmental impacts in the form of tariffs. We also suggest that upstream countries with low-emission technologies should support—and be supported by—downstream countries in a concerted effort to reduce environmental pressure.