In its presentation "Steel and the Circular Economy", the European Steel Association EUROFER analyses the role of steel in the circular economy. As steel is 100 % recyclable - without losing any of its properties - the material has great potential for the circular economy. What challenges still need to be overcome?
A relevant point in this context is that although around half of the steel produced in Europe already comes from recycled scrap, the demand for steel is so high that there is not enough scrap to meet demand in full. Primary steel production therefore remains necessary at present.
However, improved production processes and optimised product design will at least reduce resource consumption in the steel industry, leading to greater efficiency. By-products of steel production, such as process gases and slag, replace natural resources in other industries and thus contribute to resource efficiency.
In order to promote sustainability in the steel industry, suitable political framework conditions must be created. This includes the promotion of recycling and the legal recognition of steel as a "permanent material."
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