11.06.2007 - 10:18am ET

(CSRwire) NEW YORK - November 6, 2007 - Recognized for its leading environmental and social performance in the metals and mining industry, Alcoa announced today that it has earned 'Best in Class' status by Storebrand Investments and qualifies for the Storebrand Best in Class mutual funds and other Storebrand SRI (Socially Responsible Investment) mandates.

Only companies ranking in the top 30 percentile of Storebrand's corporate responsibility performance analyses are considered best in class and are eligible for participation in Storebrand's SRI's investment mandates. Storebrand is a leading financial services company based in Norway with a strong commitment to corporate responsibility and is considered a leading player within socially responsible investment.

Selection for the best in class ranking is based on an analysis of 56 global companies in the metals and mining industry over a 14 month period, which began in June 2006 by Storebrand SRI, an in-house research department for environmental and social screening of companies.

Companies were weighed on five environmental indicators - environmental management, energy, water, waste, and product and services -- and five social performance indicators - occupational health and safety, labor relations, human rights, governance and business partners.

"Sustainability has always been one of the key values we live every day to build financial success, environmental excellence and social responsibility. This recognition is acknowledgement of our strategy for sustainability," said Alcoa Chairman and CEO Alain Belda.

Efforts in sustainable production and achievement have helped earn Alcoa recognition and inclusion in other indices and investment funds as a leader in sustainable practices including the Dow Jones Sustainability Index and the Climate Disclosure Leadership Index.

About Alcoa

Alcoa is the world's leading producer and manager of primary aluminum, fabricated aluminum and alumina facilities, and is active in all major aspects of the industry. Alcoa serves the aerospace, automotive, packaging, building and construction, commercial transportation and industrial markets, bringing design, engineering, production and other capabilities of Alcoa's businesses to customers. In addition to aluminum products and components including flat-rolled products, hard alloy extrusions, and forgings, Alcoa also markets Alcoa(R) wheels, fastening systems, precision and investment castings, structures and building systems. The company has 116,000 employees in 44 countries and has been named one of the top most sustainable corporations in the world at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. More information can be found at www.alcoa.com