AWAC is a global enterprise that conducts business in diverse markets with different communities with their own values and customs. It is important that interactions are conducted in a way that respects local communities and human rights and also fosters positive long term relationships for mutual benefit.
To this end Alcoa has detailed policies and codes of conduct to guide employees. It is also signatory to the UN Global Compact with respect to human rights and the other principles relating to labour, environment, and anti-corruption.
Alumina Limited supports Alcoa’s position and has developed similar policies and practices to protect both employees and stakeholder groups.
During 2010 Alumina Limited focussed attention on the following AWAC operations where community engagement and relationships remains central to future development:
Currently AWAC operates in areas home to indigenous peoples including:
AWAC has developed successful long term partnerships with many indigenous tribes in Western Australia and Victoria. In Suriname it conducts consultation with the Paranarka maroon tribe about plans to develop the Nassau Plateau. In Brazil, AWAC works with the tribal community of Juruti Vehlo, through ACORJUVE a community group that undertakes a coordinating role on behalf of the local indigenous peoples.
During 2010 there were no reported human rights non compliances through AWAC or Alumina Limited
We recognise that not all interactions with AWAC’s operations may be positive for local communities minimise this impact and improve understanding Alcoa implements detailed training programs in human rights, ethical conduct and anti-corruption and bribery practices.
All AWAC employees and onsite, long-term, full-time contractors are required to participate in annual refresher training that explains Alcoa’s business conduct standards and their applicability to the individuals’ work responsibilities.
In 2010, an online human rights training course for managers was developed and deployed. Managers will complete the mandatory course during the year as part of their standard curriculum (98 per cent of all employees have received this training).
Alcoa enhanced its Anti-Corruption Policy to prohibit facilitation payments (which are permitted under U.S. law). As part of the roll-out of the updated policy there was refresher anti-corruption training to all employees enrolled in the online ethics and compliance training.
Alumina Limited also has a detailed code of conduct that provides clear direction and support to employees Employees also receive annual training in Human Rights, Anti-corruption and Bribery and International Business Practice.