In a strategic move to manage environmental constraints and prolong the lifespan of one of its key Australian assets, Rio Tinto has announced it will slash production at its Yarwun alumina refinery near Gladstone by 40%, beginning in October 2026.
The reduction is directly tied to the looming capacity limit of the site’s tailings storage facility, which, under current operating rates, is projected to reach full capacity by 2031.
By significantly curtailing output, the mining giant aims to extend the refinery’s operational window through 2035, creating a crucial window of time to explore, develop, and trial innovative technical solutions for tailings management and facility modernisation.
This pause-and-plan approach underscores Rio Tinto’s effort to balance ongoing alumina production with long-term environmental stewardship and operational sustainability.
Armando Torres, Managing Director of Rio Tinto Aluminium Pacific Operations, said:
“While we have thoroughly explored the development of a second tailings facility at Yarwun over several years, the required investment is substantial and not currently economically viable.
Reducing production from October 2026 allows us to maintain alumina output until 2035 while pursuing pathways to secure Yarwun’s longer-term future.”
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