Conventional steel relies heavily on coal-fueled blast furnaces, accounting for 7-9% of global CO₂ emissions. With steel demand projected to grow 35% by 2050, the need for sustainable alternatives has never been more urgent. The modern steel industry faces increasing pressure to reduce its substantial carbon footprint.

Keep reading to analyze some ways in which steel production innovations are moving towards sustainability.

The shift beyond traditional industry methods

Green steel production requires not just technological innovation, but a complete rethinking of the steelmaking process. This transition challenges the industry to adapt and evolve to implement this key differentiator in the market. These are some of the ways in which the steel sector is working to reduce carbon emissions, among other environmentally-friendly changes:

Electric Arc Furnaces

These furnaces use electricity to melt scrap steel or direct reduced iron, offering a more flexible alternative to traditional blast furnaces. When powered by renewable energy sources, EAFs can dramatically reduce the carbon intensity of steel production, emitting up to 85% less CO₂ than using iron ore in a blast furnace.

This technology also enhances steel manufacturers’ ability to recycle steel, promoting a more circular economy.

Scrap recycling

Recycling scrap in steel production offers significant environmental, economic, and operational benefits, making it one of the most effective strategies for creating a more sustainable steel industry. Melting scrap requires 75–90% less energy than extracting and refining iron ore.

Scrap-based steelmaking can be powered by renewable electricity, further minimizing environmental impact. Lower fuel and input costs make recycled steel production more economically viable, especially in regions with tight environmental regulations.

Collaboration towards net-zero emissions

Collaboration is crucial to achieving net-zero emissions in sustainable steel production. The steel industry’s complexity and global reach means no single company can make the transition alone. Strategic cooperation across sectors, borders, and value chains is required. Making sustainability a priority across sectors is a great way to begin this process.

Environmental benefits of green steel

The environmental benefits of green steel extend beyond carbon reduction. Sustainable methods can result in overall better production processes, such as:

• Reduce other pollutants
• Improve air quality
• Minimize water usage
• Generate lower waste

These benefits are not only an environmental necessity, but an economic opportunity. Steel has the unique ability to be recycled multiple times without losing its properties. Choosing this material can also translate to reducing production costs significantly.

Corporate sustainability

Mid Continent Steel and Wire exemplifies sustainability in steel production through comprehensive environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives. Sustainability is integrated into every aspect of our operations, minimizing environmental impact while contributing positively to society. These are some of the ways in which we implement green practices:

• 97% of the raw material used in our production is recycled.
• 99% of the leftover in our production is recycled back into raw material.
• 42% of the water used in our production undergoes a treatment process.
• Only 0.36 tons of C02 is emitted for each ton of steel produced.

Green steel represents a great opportunity to conserve natural resources, contribute to energy efficiency, and mitigate climate change.

Mid-Continent Steel and Wire is a great sustainable choice

As part of DEACERO, our steel production emits 85% less CO₂ than the global average. This achievement is a result of utilizing Electric Arc Furnaces powered by renewable energy sources.

Our products can help you earn LEED credits and take your project reach your sustainability goals. Visit our catalog and make a smart investment.