Forging a Greener Path: Steel Sustainability in Action

Steel, a vital material driving progress across industries, faces the challenge of having to reduce its environmental impact in a world increasingly focused on sustainability. In 2021, global steel production reached an estimated 1.87 billion metric tonnes, underscoring its indispensable pressure in meeting global and decarbonisation demands (World Steel Association, 2022).

Responsible Sourcing and Supply Chain Transparency 

To achieve sustainable steel production, responsible sourcing practices and transparent supply chains are essential. Steel manufacturers are evaluating suppliers' environmental practices, adhering to ethical and social standards, and ensuring transparency throughout the supply chain. These efforts promote responsible steel sourcing and contribute to sustainability. 
One notable development in sustainable steel production is the increasing use of electric arc furnaces (EAFs) powered by renewable energy sources. EAFs are more energy-efficient and emit fewer CO2 emissions compared to traditional blast furnaces. 

Additionally, recycling scrap steel reduces the reliance on virgin materials, conserves resources, and minimises the carbon footprint. Energy efficiency and emissions reduction are crucial aspects of sustainable steel production. 

Companies are investing in energy-efficient technologies and innovative processes to minimise their environmental footprint. By optimising energy consumption and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the industry is taking significant steps towards a greener future.

Sustainable Production Process 

Water consumption is a key aspect of sustainable steel production that the industry is exploring. Steel production requires significant amounts of water, and the industry is exploring ways to reduce its water footprint. One approach is to use recycled water in the production process, reducing the reliance on freshwater sources. Additionally, water treatment technologies can help to minimise the environmental impact of steel production. 

The steel industry is also exploring ways to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. The use of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, can significantly reduce the industry's carbon footprint. Steel manufacturers are investing in renewable energy infrastructure, including wind turbines and solar panels, to power their operations. Additionally, the use of biofuels and hydrogen as alternative energy sources is gaining traction in the industry. 

Application of Circular Economy for the Steel Industry 

The circular economy principles are gaining prominence in the steel industry. Steel, being highly recyclable, offers enormous potential for reducing waste and conserving resources. By promoting recycling and reusing steel products, the industry aims to close the material loop and reduce waste. Recycling scrap steel not only reduces the need for virgin materials but also minimises energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions associated with the production of steel from primary sources. Embracing the circular economy in steel production ensures a closed-loop system, where end-of-life steel is transformed into new products, mitigating environmental impact.

Innovative Technologies Employed to Enhance Sustainability 

Innovation is a driving force in achieving sustainability within the steel industry. Ongoing research and development efforts focus on developing advanced materials and technologies that enhance the performance of steel while reducing its environmental footprint. 

Advanced high-strength steels (AHSS), for instance, offer improved strength and lighter weight, enabling energy-efficient designs in automotive applications. For instance, industry leader Schaeffler offers reliable rolling mill bearings made from a special steel "Mancrodur" with a significantly longer operating life and a low carbon footprint. 

Moreover, emerging technologies like hydrogen-based direct reduction can significantly reduce CO2 emissions during the steelmaking process. Innovation plays a pivotal role in driving sustainability within the steel industry. As a strategic partner for the energy revolution with green hydrogen, Schaeffler offers electrolyzer stacks that are suited for decentralized hydrogen production on an industrial scale. 

Ongoing research and development efforts focus on developing advanced materials and technologies that enhance steel's performance while reducing its environmental impact. These innovations pave the way for a more sustainable and efficient steel production cycle.

Steel Sustainable Practices and its Impact on Industries 

The sustainable practices adopted by the steel industry have a significant impact on various industries that rely on steel. By adopting responsible sourcing practices, circular economy principles, energy efficiency, emissions reduction, water conservation, renewable energy, sustainable design and construction, and sustainable transportation, the steel industry is promoting responsible steel sourcing, reducing waste, and minimising the carbon footprint of the built environment and transportation. 

These efforts have a positive impact on industries such as construction, automotive, and manufacturing, as they contribute to a greener future and a harmonious balance between industrial progress and environmental stewardship. For instance, in the construction industry, the employment of steel can contribute to reducing the carbon footprint of the built environment. 

Also, as steel is a crucial material in the automotive industry, and the industry is exploring ways to reduce the carbon footprint of transportation. Electric vehicles (EVs) powered by renewable energy sources are gaining popularity, and the use of lightweight, high-strength steel in EVs can significantly reduce their environmental impact. 

As the world embraces sustainability, the steel industry is compelled to forge a greener future. Through responsible sourcing practices, energy-efficient processes, circular economy principles, and innovation, the industry is making significant strides in reducing its environmental impact. 

Collaborative partnerships and industry-wide initiatives further strengthen the collective commitment to sustainability. By prioritising the responsible extraction of raw materials, optimising energy consumption, embracing circularity, and fostering innovation, the steel industry can contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future.

Learn more about Schaeffler’s sustainable practices for the sourcing and production of steel here.

Reference:
World Steel Association. (2022). Crude Steel Production 2021. Retrieved from https://www.worldsteel.org/en/dam/jcr:7d49120d-dfc3-4ef8-bfea-f2e5b6015f53/World+Steel+in+Figures+2022.pd

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