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Input for the consultation on the new circular economy action plan
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Steel is one of the most recycled materials in the world, playing a vital role as an enabler for transitioning to a CO2 neutral and circular economy. It is possible to recycle steel multiple times into same quality or even better quality steel, a permanent material. Steel inherent properties make it more versatile, durable and even separable than other materials. Thus, steel is a material permanently available to society, a “permanent material”.
However, notwithstanding the previous EU action plan on circular economy, there are still barriers which limit the contribution of the steel sector to the EU transition towards a circular economy. In the following paragraphs, EUROFER summarises its suggestions and proposals on how to support the initiatives contained in the roadmap and how to achieve the goals without hampering the industrial transition.
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Brussels, 06 February 2025 – The economic and geopolitical conditions that have affected the European steel market over the past two years show no signs of improvement and have further deepened their negative impact on the sector in 2024. Growing uncertainty continues to weigh also on 2025 and 2026, with the outlook hinging on unpredictable developments especially as regards international trade. According to EUROFER’s latest Economic and Steel Market Outlook, the recession in apparent steel consumption in 2024 will be steeper than previously projected (-2.3%, down from -1.8%) and the expected recovery in 2025 has now been downgraded (+2.2%, down from +3.8%). Similarly, steel-using sectors’ recession has been revised downwards for 2024 (-3.3% from -2.7%), while growth projections for 2025 have also been lowered (+0,9% from +1.6%). Some acceleration is not expected until 2026 (+2.1%). Steel imports remain at historically high levels (28%) also in the third quarter of 2024.
First quarter 2025 report. Data up to, and including, third quarter 2024
Brussels, 04 February 2025 – The European Steel Association (EUROFER) supports the demonstration of thousands of industry workers taking place tomorrow, 5 February, in Brussels, organised by industriAll Europe. Steel workers from across the EU will join workers from other manufacturing industries to call on the European Commission to save our industry and preserve employment by investing in good industrial jobs and the transition, while combating global overcapacity and unfair trade.