The Cast Metals Federation (CMF) welcomed foundries, suppliers and industry partners to the CMF Net Zero Forum 2026 in Wolverhampton on Wednesday 10 June, for a day focused on practical action, innovation and competitiveness in the transition to net zero.
Bringing together experts from across industry, academia and the supply chain, the Forum explored some of the most pressing issues facing UK foundries, including energy markets, carbon regulation, operational efficiency, resource recovery and sustainability reporting.
The programme combined policy updates with real-world case studies, giving delegates practical insight that could be applied directly within their own businesses.
Commenting on the event, CMF Chief Executive Lee Marshall said: “The transition to net zero presents both challenges and opportunities for our sector.
“What was particularly encouraging at this year’s Forum was the practical nature of the discussions and the willingness of businesses to share experience and learn from one another.
“The level of engagement throughout the day demonstrated that our industry is committed to improving efficiency, reducing emissions and strengthening competitiveness, while ensuring UK foundries remain resilient in a rapidly changing environment.”
Data insights
A key theme running throughout the day was the growing importance of data. Speakers highlighted how better measurement, monitoring and management of operational data can help foundries identify opportunities to reduce electricity consumption, improve production efficiency and lower carbon emissions.
Delegates also heard how the same data can support wider business objectives, including compliance with emerging regulations such as the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and access to energy cost reduction schemes.
Accessing support
The Forum provided a timely reminder that significant support remains available for eligible manufacturers. Presentations and discussions encouraged businesses to examine schemes such as the Energy Intensive Industries (EII) programme and the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme (BICS) in detail, as some companies may qualify for support despite initially assuming they do not meet the criteria.
Innovation
Innovation was another strong feature of the event. Delegates heard about a range of successful trials and proof-of-concept projects aimed at reducing energy consumption, improving sustainability performance and lowering carbon emissions. Many of these initiatives were being delivered through partnerships between foundries, suppliers and universities, demonstrating the value of collaboration in accelerating progress towards net zero.
Policy, lobbying and engagement
Alongside operational improvements, the Forum addressed the wider policy landscape. While speakers acknowledged continuing uncertainty driven by global economic and geopolitical events, the message was clear that businesses can still take practical steps to prepare for the future. Whether through energy-saving schemes, carbon reporting requirements or regulatory developments such as CBAM, there are opportunities available now for companies willing to plan ahead.
CMF also provided an update on its ongoing lobbying activity, including continued engagement with the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) to secure full inclusion of foundry SIC codes within the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme.
The event generated strong engagement throughout the day. Question-and-answer sessions prompted lively discussion, with delegates taking the opportunity to engage with speakers, share experiences and explore practical solutions. The positive atmosphere continued during the networking breaks and lunch, where conversations reflected both the challenges facing the sector and the determination of businesses to address them.
The CMF would like to thank all speakers, sponsors and delegates for contributing to another successful Net Zero Forum and helping to drive forward the sustainability agenda across the UK cast metals industry.
CMF members can now download the presentations from the day – click and sign in to access our Member Area document downloads >>
