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WINDALCO is committed to achieving sound environmental performance by controlling the impact of its activities on the environment. The environmental management tools being used include environmental impact assessment, risk assessment, audits, emergency preparedness planning and the use of appropriate technology to protect the environment.  Through its comprehensive Environmental Programme, the Company seeks to identify and minimise all undesirable impacts of its operation on the environment.  If it is perceived that any of the Company's operations has resulted in nuisance or environmental damage, the company will investigate all such situations and minimise/eliminate the nuisance or damage.

 WINDALCO is always involved in research and development that lead to more environmentally acceptable technology such as the use of mud stacking and drying technology that replaced the mud lake in Ewarton.  This method of red mud disposal is known as drystacking and is the most environmentally friendly method of disposing this kind of waste worldwide.  WINDALCO, which was then Alcan, was the first Company to implement this method which is now the standard method of red mud disposal and variations of this method are now embraced by other alumina refinery plants worldwide.  WINDALCO has also established advanced practices in reclamation and restoration. 

There is also active involvement in other research and development projects such as the reuse of red mud tailings, the rehabilitation of mined-out bauxite ore bodies, the recycling of metal and other waste and the rehabilitation of abandoned mud disposal sites.

The Company has made environmental management one of its highest priorities and in 2000 has adopted the International Environmental Standard, ISO 14001 as its management system in addressing its environment concerns.   On August 9, 2000, it was (Alcan Jamaica Company then) accredited with the ISO 14001-1996 Environmental Management System (EMS) Standard.  This was a major achievement for the Company and for Jamaica, as the Company was the first in Jamaica to be accredited to this environmental standard. 

WINDALCO is cognisant of the fact that a harmonious relationship with the host community is crucial for the successful operation of the Company’s business.  Based on this fact, the Company has worked hard to establish an effective Community Development Programme.  Some of the features of this programme are frequent meetings with community representatives to hear their concerns, inform them of the Company’s environmental activities and to apprise them of action plans to mitigate any potential adverse impact.   Where a resident has a concern or complaint, there are mechanisms in place to address them as quickly as possible.  The Community Relations Department also provides funding for various community projects. These are typically in the area of skills training, health, education and social investment.

Vegetated mud disposal area -
By adding waste lime to ploughed disposal areas, WINDALCO scientists have successfully encouraged vegetation.

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