Aluminum is vital to building the transportation systems of tomorrow. Its durability and non-corrosive properties make it a perfect match for many transportation system applications, including lower-maintenance roads and bridges. In addition, lightweight strength and conductive properties make it essential for both the electric vehicles of the future and their charging stations.

Aluminum builds a more sustainable structure. Aluminum is used extensively as a material in large public building projects, combining beauty with functionality. Aluminum provides a high strength to weight ratio, corrosion resistance and desirable thermal properties. Also, aluminum’s durability means it lasts for decades, reducing maintenance costs. When used for construction, aluminum structures can weigh substantially less than steel while providing comparable strength. Aluminum can also help qualify a building for green building status under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) framework in part due to its high recycled content. Improving buildings supports high-tech manufacturing, increases operational efficiencies, reduces carbon emissions and improves livability.

Sustainable energy generation depends on aluminum, which enables renewable energy projects and energy storage. Aluminum is the most widely used material in electricity transmission and distribution today. At about half the weight of copper and a lower price point, aluminum wire and cable allows utilities to run transmission lines with less upfront cost and with far fewer supporting structures. It is time to modernize the nation’s aging patchwork system of power generating plants, transmission and distribution lines and substations to power the growing demands for sustainable electricity in the 21^st century.