Rio Tinto plans to reduce production at its Yarwun alumina refinery in Gladstone, Australia, by 40% starting in October next year. This move aims to extend the operation's life until 2035, as the existing tailings facility would otherwise reach capacity by 2031.

The 1.2 million tons annual production cut will create time to develop alternative, long-term technical solutions, as building a second traditional tailings facility was deemed not economically viable currently.

The company, which produces three million tons annually at Yarwun, said that the transition affects about 180 roles, with redeployment planned across its Gladstone operations. Rio Tinto confirmed no impact on customer supply and stated that it will continue pursuing decarbonization initiatives.