Why defining green steel matters
Without a clear benchmark, green steel risks becoming a buzzword rather than a real solution. Some manufacturers may claim sustainability even when the reduction in CO2 emissions is minimal or non-existent. For example, if only 10% of a steelmaker’s output is lower-emission steel, but the other 90% follows traditional, high-emission processes, is it truly green? In the race to combat climate change, transparency matters more than ever.
"Today, companies can claim their steel is green even if the contribution to CO2 reduction is negligible. Uncomfortable facts can be omitted at a time when there’s an urgent need to combat climate change. Everyone buying and using products containing steel has the right to see the facts behind climate change promises. Green statements are not enough," says Johan Anderson, Market Development at SSAB. "The responsibility of the steel industry is not just to remove the carbon footprint, but also to show exactly how it’s done.”
On the bright side, steel customers and end-users are demanding more transparency. The call for hard numbers and scientific proof is putting pressure on steelmakers to back up their claims.
"Customer demand for decarbonized steel and products with less cimate impact is real. It encourages and pushes us as steelmakers to go all the way, virtually eliminating the product’s carbon footprint," Anderson adds.
A path to truly sustainable steel
Steel production is one of the largest contributors to CO2 emissions, responsible for around 7% of global emissions. But the good news is that solutions exist.
One of the most effective strategies is steel recycling, which has reached an impressive 90% in many parts of the world. However, recycled steel alone isn’t enough – it currently meets just. That’s why the industry must also focus on transitioning to a quarter of global demand truly sustainable steelmaking processes.
As companies source steel, it’s crucial not to take green labels at face value. Instead, they must dig deeper, investigate what’s behind the claims, and demand scientific proof. Because in the fight against climate change, facts – not just promises – will make the real difference.