Environmental Work Where Theory Meets Practice

In Sundsvall, industrial production runs 24/7. Here, primary aluminium is produced at Sweden’s only aluminium smelter—a process that is both energy-intensive and technically complex. At the same time, environmental management, control and long-term responsibility are essential to ensure sustainable aluminium production over time. At the centre of this work is Ida Magnusson, Environmental Engineer at KUBAL. Her career reflects how environmental expertise, curiosity and practical problem-solving come together in industry—and how environmental work in practice is as much about collaboration and everyday decisions as it is about theory.

Ida holds a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science from Mid Sweden University, where she studied Ecotechnology in Östersund. Her choice of study came almost by chance. “I had actually missed all the application deadlines. It was mid-summer when I was looking at what was still available, and this programme appeared.” Environmental and sustainability issues had long been an interest, but she did not initially see it as a defined career path. Instead, it was curiosity and a desire to work with meaningful issues that guided her.

Unlike many others, she did not start at KUBAL as a summer worker. As her studies came to an end, her mother told her about an open position as an Environmental Engineer at KUBAL. “At first, I said I couldn’t apply—I’m not an engineer, I only have a Bachelor’s degree. But she encouraged me to apply anyway.” The process moved quickly, and shortly after, Ida started her first job after graduation.

Entering the environment of an aluminium smelter was a significant transition. Moving from academia to heavy industry—from theory to practice. “It was a bit of a shock—large machines, noise and heat. There is a lot happening at once.” At the same time, it became clear that her education had provided a strong foundation. Environmental work in industry rarely involves ready-made answers—it is about analysing, testing and finding practical solutions.

During her first years, Ida worked extensively with sampling and analysis as part of the company’s environmental monitoring programme. During her first years, Ida worked extensively with sampling and analysis as part of the company’s environmental monitoring programme. Over time, her role has expanded. Today, she works in close collaboration with production, maintenance and other parts of the organisation. Environmental issues in industry are rarely isolated—they impact the entire operation.

A key part of her work is monitoring emissions to air and water. Processes are closely monitored through both manual sampling and automated systems. In recent years, digitalisation has made it possible to track results in real time. In recent years, digitalisation has made it possible to track results in real time. This enables faster detection of deviations and earlier corrective actions.

Working with environmental issues in industry also means setting boundaries when needed. “Sometimes we come in like the police—we have to say this is not possible, we have environmental requirements to follow.” At its core, however, the work is about developing long-term solutions that support both production and environmental performance.

Aluminium production involves environmental challenges, but Ida also highlights the importance of aluminium in the sustainable transition. Aluminium is used in everything from construction to the automotive industry and can be recycled repeatedly without losing quality. At KUBAL, extensive recycling and internal recirculation already take place—something that is not always widely known outside the industry.

When Ida describes the workplace, she often highlights her colleagues. “We are a close team. It is enjoyable to come to work.” Collaboration across functions is a key part of the role. She also feels she has the opportunity to influence both her own work and the company’s ongoing development.