The work that follows is a contribution to the aluminum industry’s sustainability. It deals with the critical issue of solid wastes accruing to that sector. By-products from aluminum refining are solid wastes, liquid effluents and gaseous emissions. Each kilogram of metal produced is accompanied by three and a half kilograms of bauxite residue, commonly known as red mud. Current practice is to use decantation lagoons that are built with elaborate precautions for preventing environmental contamination. The aim of the present work is to investigate this pollutant within the perspective of current solid industrial waste technologies, and to study the practicalities for utilization and new processes. The very high ratio residue/end product provides a strong incentive insofar as the residue concerned does in fact offer numerous commercial opportunities. Thus the feasibility of converting the residue into a raw material is a real alternative to landfill disposal. Numerous industrial processes and technologies have been considered in relation to environmental legislation, industrial marketing, competitive processes and other factors. In conclusion the subject paper recommends a series of activities that would achieve transformation of red mud into valuable substances and substitute other existing raw materials without adversely affecting quality and the environment.