NEW YORK--Alcoa (NYSE:AA) announced today that it has achieved the top ranking in the Basic Resource category of the 2008 Covalence Ethical Ranking, a methodology that gauges the reputation of international companies. Alcoa was also chosen as one of the top ten ethical companies across all industries and companies. It has been ranked first in the metals and mining industry and in the top ten among all companies since the ranking began in 2005.

Covalence is a Geneva-based NGO that closely monitors 18 sectors comprising 541 companies that are included in the Dow Jones Sector Titans stock index. Its methodology has become the barometer of how multinationals are perceived in the ethical field. Data is classified according to 45 criteria such as labor standards, waste management, product social utility or human rights policy. This year, Covalence increased the number of sectors and companies it monitors to 18 sectors from 10 and 541 companies from 300 companies previously.

“Our values guide our behavior at every level across Alcoa worldwide. We are proud of the continued recognition of Alcoa as a company respected for our strong character and principles,” said Klaus Kleinfeld, Alcoa President and CEO.

About Alcoa

Alcoa is the world leader in the production and management of primary aluminum, fabricated aluminum and alumina combined, through its active and growing participation 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® wheels, fastening systems, precision and investment castings, and building systems. The Company has been named one of the top most sustainable corporations in the world at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland and has been a member of the Dow Jones Sustainability Index for seven consecutive years. More information can be found at www.alcoa.com