The LME has integrated the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) requirements into the LME rules to support the aluminium market and value chain with implementing this environmental policy.
This page outlines the LME’s CBAM initiative from the perspective of an aluminium producer. If you are a metal owner and wish to view CBAM emissions data, please visit LMEpassport or email the SPM Development team.
On 1 May 2024, the LME released - via Member Notice 24/178 - a consultation on the proposed integration of the EU CBAM requirements into the LME Rulebook in respect of LME Primary Aluminium, Aluminium Alloy and North American Special Aluminium Alloy Contract (NASAAC).
Following the consultation period, the LME confirmed its decision to proceed with mandatory CBAM emissions reporting for all aluminium LME-listed aluminium brands, in line with the EU regulation. Voluntary reporting aligned with the International Aluminium Institute (IAI) framework is also be supported.
The key areas of LME’s CBAM requirement:
LME emissions reporting form
Each LME-listed brand is required to complete and upload the LME emissions reporting form (Excel) to LMEpassport each year. LMEpassport then associates the uploaded form with any CoA that is linked to that particular brand. This approach allows producers to maintain their existing CoA processes, while enabling metal owners to access relevant emissions data for the metal they hold, whether or not it has been placed on warrant.
Use of LMEpassport
Aluminium producers can log into LMEpassport to upload their emissions reporting form. Users navigate to the “Manage sustainability profile” section and then "CBAM” where they have the option to “upload a new CBAM submission” for each LME deliverable aluminium brand. Producers also have the capability to manage and view their previous submissions.
Timelines and verification
The initial deadline for submitting an LME emissions reporting form was 15 June 2025. From 2026 onwards, the annual deadline will be 1 September. Verification of emissions data will become mandatory starting 1 September 2027, covering emissions from the 2026 calendar year.
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Data privacy
The emissions reporting form is attached to the CoA, meaning it is only be accessible to the LME, the owner of that metal, and the warehouse at which that metal is stored (if the material goes on warrant). We recognise that some stakeholders regard certain data as commercially sensitive, and as such, the information is not be made publicly available.
Additional ESG information
The LME also facilitates voluntary emissions reporting in line with the IAI Aluminium Carbon Footprint Methodology. This appears as an additional tab on the LME emissions reporting form and producers can voluntarily opt to fill this out in addition to the “Mandatory” tab.
Similar to CBAM data, any voluntary upload of IAI-aligned data will be attached to the CoA through LMEpassport.
Updates to LME’s emissions reporting requirements
We recognise that other jurisdictions may introduce similar carbon border adjustment policies in the future. The LME will monitor these initiatives closely and may consider including them in the emissions reporting scheme when necessary.
