Steel production is an energy-intensive process using raw materials that must be mined and/or processed before being made into steel. Steel production itself, whilst also creating emissions, also creates by-products of various kinds which can be used in other products, or that must be treated in order to avoid harming the environment. Steel production also involves the use of various chemicals or other metals to give various properties to the steel itself.
Because of the complexity of the production process and the ramifications of the sector on the European economy and the environment, EUROFER works intensively on environmental issues, including in the circular economy, recycling, water and air quality, waste management, products policy, chemicals policy, raw materials and lifecycle assessment. Information about each of these areas can be found here.
Brussels, 22 March 2024 – The future of a strong and resilient EU can only be forged with steel made in Europe. Europe-made low-carbon steel has a strategic role as it enables a net-zero economy, but today it faces strong headwinds from high energy prices, unfair competition, global overcapacity and growing unilateral carbon costs. The year 2023 has recorded the lowest European crude steel production levels ever, with a number of idled plants and dire impact on workers. Ensuring the enabling conditions for the short-term viability and the decarbonisation of the steel sector urgently needs to be at the top of the EU agenda. This is the message delivered by the European Steel Association together with a number of high-level representatives of the sector on the occasion of the Clean Transition Dialogue on Steel in the presence of the Executive Vice Presidents of the European Commission, Maroš Šefčovič and Margrethe Vestager.
European Industry Summit: a business case for Europe, under the auspices of the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the EU - There is an urgent need for clarity, predictability, and confidence in Europe and its industrial policy
Antwerp, 20 February 2024 – Today 73 industry leaders spanning almost 20 industrial sectors presented ‘The Antwerp Declaration for a European Industrial Deal’ to Belgian Prime Minister, Alexander De Croo and Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen. The declaration underlines the commitment of industry to Europe and its transformation and outlines urgent industry needs to make Europe competitive, resilient, and sustainable in the face of dire economic conditions.
Steel is 100% recyclable – a permanent material that underpins the economy, but also contributes to environmental goals by reducing the use of virgin raw materials and CO2 emissions.
EU products policy is an enabler to help deliver on ambitious climate goals and on aims to reduce raw material use and improve recycling rates and outcomes.
The European Steel Association (EUROFER)
172 Avenue de Cortenbergh
1000 Brussels
Belgium
Email: mail@eurofer.eu
Phone: +32 (0) 2 738 79 20
