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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, 25 July 2024 – Major indicators in the European steel market show a steeper-than-expected downward trend, further impacting the outlook for this year and the next. Poor demand conditions, driven by ongoing factors such as high energy prices, persistent inflation, economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions, are exacerbated by a manufacturing crisis affecting the largest steel-using sectors, including construction and automotive. According to EUROFER’s latest Economic and Steel Market Outlook, apparent steel consumption is further deteriorating. After a slump (-3.1%) in the first quarter of 2024, its rebound for the full year has been revised downwards (to +1.4% from +3.2%), as well as for 2025 (+4.1% from +5.6%). Similarly, output in steel-using sectors, after a decline in the first quarter (-1.9%), is projected to experience a deeper-than-expected recession (-1.6% from -1%). A recovery is anticipated only in 2025 (+2.3%). Steel imports continue to show historically high shares (27%).
Third quarter 2024 report. Data up to, and including, first quarter 2024
Picture Copyright: European Union, 2024 Source: EC - Audiovisual Service
Brussels, 18 July 2024 – The re-election of Ursula von der Leyen as President of the European Commission paves the way for the continuation of the ambitious initiatives started in her first term. For a stronger and prosperous Europe, defining a pragmatic set of measures within the first 100 days of the new Commission mandate is the right step forward to ensure the success of the EU’s industry transition, if properly implemented. The European Steel Association urges that the Clean Industrial Deal be complemented as a priority by a European Steel Pact, as proposed by the German delegation to the European People’s Party (EPP).