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.
Joint letter of Europe’s clean technology industries & key materials suppliers
Brussels, 11 September 2023 – The European metals industry, including both ferrous and non-ferrous metals, has initiated the process to establish its own EU Transition Pathway* in collaboration with the European Commission. The metals sector plays a pivotal role in facilitating the EU’s green and digital transitions by enabling several strategic value chains at the core of the clean tech economy. The objective of this comprehensive plan is to ensure the sustainability and resilience of the metals sector, aligning it with the overarching objectives of the EU twin transition.
EUROFER's Annual Report 2023 looks back at the work of the Association and the performance of the European steel industry over the past year, and looks forward to the challenges ahead.
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.