Global Recycling Day: Analysing the role of scrap in steelmaking through the years
To mark Global Recycling Day, Matthew Wenban-Smith reflects on the history of steel recycling and what it tells us about the transition to a net-zero steel economy in the future.
When it comes to recycling, it is worth taking the long view. For the first few thousand years, iron and steel recycling meant reworking rather than re-melting. The development of the blast furnace around one thousand years ago made it possible to convert steel scrap into liquid metal. And the first commercial Electric Arc Furnace (EAF), capable of using 100% scrap, was built in 1906.
Smaller, less costly to build, and more flexible to operate than blast furnaces, the spread of EAFs through the 20th century was limited only by the availability of scrap and electricity.
In the US, as demand for new steel approached saturation and as the steel in infrastructure and buildings constructed 40 or 50 years previously became available for recovery and recycling, scrap-based EAF production began to replace blast furnace steelmaking, even as the blast furnaces themselves used more scrap. Blast furnace production peaked in 1969, and no new blast furnace has been built in the US since 1980 (Construction Physics, 2023). Today, around 70% of steel in the US is made in EAFs (American Iron and Steel Institute, 2021).
The same pattern of increasing demand, met initially from primary production and then later through a growing reliance on scrap, is now playing itself out in Europe and China, is set to take off in south Asia, and it is to be hoped will roll out across Africa. Steel production globally is projected to peak in the second half of the 21st century, with scrap supply following 30 or 40 years after that.
The growth of scrap-based production has been driven by economics, of course, rather than by any concerns about the climate or greenhouse gas emissions – but that doesn’t make it any less welcome. A tonne of steel made entirely from scrap has around one-fifth of the greenhouse gas emissions of a tonne of steel made from iron ore.
Does that mean we can all relax, and recycle our way out of the climate crisis? Sadly not.
The American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) estimates that the USA now recycles between 70% and 80% of all of its potentially available scrap (AISI, 2021). The World Steel Association (worldsteel) puts the global recycling rate even higher than that, at around 85% for end-of-life scrap.
Then why, despite these impressive recycling rates, is there currently only enough scrap to meet around one-third of the global demand for steel? The main reason is that scrap availability reflects the level of steel production a generation ago, rather than today. Steel production in 1985 was around 720 million tonnes. Today it is around two billion tonnes. Even without taking account of end-of-life recovery and furnace yield losses there is no way to make those numbers add up.
As demand for steel levels off in the future, a higher proportion of that demand will be met from scrap. In its ‘Sustainable Development Scenario’, in which the end-of-life recycling rate rises to 90%, the IEA estimates that there would be enough scrap to meet 45% of the demand for steel in 2050 (IEA, 2020). That is something to celebrate. But to put it the other way around, it would mean that 55% of the world’s steel – perhaps 1.2 billion tonnes of it – would still be made directly from iron ore.
To have any chance of limiting climate change to ‘well below 2 degrees’ and at the same time respecting the aspirations of 9 to 10 billion people, two things therefore need to happen. Firstly, the vast majority of primary steel will need to be made using ‘near zero’ emission sources of iron – using hydrogen-based direct reduction iron (DRI), direct electrolysis, biofuels, carbon capture or other new processes. And secondly, the electricity used in steelmaking will need to be generated with near zero emissions, whether it is used to power electric arc furnaces, hydrogen production, or direct electrolysis.
Those are the twin challenges for policy makers, steelmakers and steel users, and they apply across the whole sector.
To meet those challenges, they, and we, need to be able to compare the GHG emissions performance of all steelmaking on a like-for-like basis, whether steel is made from 100% scrap, 100% primary iron, or from any ratio of inputs in between – an approach pioneered in the ResponsibleSteel Production Standard, and recommended by the IEA, German Steel Association and others.
So let’s hear it for the recyclers, but also for the ‘near zero’ power generators, and the ‘near zero’ iron innovators.
And for a successful transition to a net-zero steel economy.
By Matthew Wenban-Smith
International Women's Day: Celebrating women working across the steel supply chain
In the second half of the twentieth century, women's participation in the global workforce grew remarkably. In the United States, female participation in the workforce surged from around 33% in 1948 to over 50% by the late 1970s (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Similarly in Europe, countries like France and Germany saw a rise from around 45% in the 1960s to over 60% by the 1980s (OECD, 2021). And in South America, Brazil also witnessed significant progress, with participation growing from approximately 18% in 1960 to 40% in 1980 (World Bank, 2020).
Despite these advancements, industries like steel, mining, and metals remained predominantly male-dominated. A 2019 broad analysis of 66 global steel, metals, and mining companies revealed that women made up between just 3% and 29% of the workforce (S&P Global). Within the steel industry specifically, women account for only about 15% of the workforce, a figure that has remained largely unchanged over the past decade (World Steel Association, 2020). These figures illustrate the persistent challenges to achieving gender diversity within the steel and metals sectors, underscoring the need for continued progress.
As workplaces evolve and diversity initiatives gain momentum, more women are entering and excelling in traditionally male-dominated sectors. Their contributions are driving innovation, improving workplace culture, and challenging longstanding societal barriers.
In recognition of International Women’s Day, ResponsibleSteel is spotlighting a few of the women who are driving change across the steel supply chain – celebrating their impact, resilience, and leadership and emphasising the need for greater diversity and inclusion in the metals sector.
Above image courtesy of Borçelik
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Elle Gatto
Assistant Team Leader - Finished Product Shipping, ArcelorMittal Dofasco
Elle has been with ArcelorMittal Dofasco for just over five years. As an Assistant Team Leader in Finished Product Shipping, she's passionate about working on the floor and ensuring steel moves efficiently. Her department is the last line of defense - she takes great pride in knowing that her role contributes to guaranteeing that only the highest-quality steel reaches customers. For Elle, being part of a team that keeps production running smoothly is rewarding and motivating, and she's looking forward to continuing to grow in the industry.
What is it like to be a woman in the steel industry?
"Being a woman in the steel industry has its challenges, but also presents unique opportunities for growth and leadership. It's empowering to contribute to an industry that is traditionally male-dominated, proving that diversity leads to stronger teams and more creative solutions. While there may be moments of being one of the few women in the room, I see it as a chance to break barriers and inspire the next generation of women in manufacturing and engineering fields."
Stefania Bonaiuti
Supplier Carbon Neutral, SKF
Stefania began her 28-year journey at SKF working in bearing product lines and later serving as the marketing manager for steel-related offerings. Currently, she focuses on Supplier Carbon Neutral deployment. Her career spans sustainability projects aimed at achieving net zero carbon emissions. Her experience in the steel industry and commitment to promoting sustainable practices continue to play an important part in advancing SKF's sustainability initiatives. She values the diverse perspectives women bring to the industry and actively supports gender balance and leadership development programmes at SKF.
What are your hopes for the future of the steel industry?
"Over the years, I have encountered many women in this field who brought diverse perspectives and innovative solutions, which are valuable in an evolving industry. Therefore, ensuring gender diversity remains crucial.
The future of the steel industry holds immense potential, rooted in sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity. Embracing cutting-edge technologies will enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact. At SKF, we drive innovation with steel products that support our customers' sustainability goals. Collaboration within the industry and with other sectors is essential for sustainable change. We are proud to be part of initiatives like ResponsibleSteel, SteelZero, and RE100. By sharing knowledge and leveraging each other's strengths, we can tackle challenges effectively and drive the industry towards a more sustainable and prosperous future."
It's empowering to contribute to an industry that is traditionally male-dominated, proving that diversity leads to stronger teams and more creative solutions. - Elle Gatto, ArcelorMittal Dofasco
Tuana Çabuk
Production Engineer - Continuous Galvanizing Line, Borçelik
Tuana graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. She has been working as a Production Engineer in the Continuous Galvanizing Line at Borçelik for two years. As a production engineer, she takes part in projects related to occupational safety, production processes, and quality performance of the lines she is responsible for.
What is it like to work in the steel industry?
"The steel industry is highly competitive and involves production processes that require advanced technology. As a result, it demands strong expertise in both engineering and production. Being actively involved in production processes and participating in various projects helps me to develop myself to be a better engineer. Since the steel industry is dynamic and requires technical proficiency, I believe that taking an active role in the manufacturing field, especially as a production engineer, provides a significant advantage.
Although the workforce is predominantly male, I take pride in contributing to the industry and promoting diversity as a female engineer. Gender diversity is a crucial issue, but I believe it should not be measured by having an equal number of men and women in every setting. Instead, it should be achieved by ensuring equal opportunities and a fair working environment for everyone. I feel fortunate to work in an organisation that supports this principle."
Dr. Ankita Gangotra
Senior Manager, World Resources Institute US
Ankita leads WRI's efforts to decarbonise the industrial sector through technology and policy innovation. Her work focuses on decarbonising the cement and steel industries, climate-oriented trade policies, green procurement standards, and fostering international cooperation. Ankita’s work includes advising U.S. policymakers and supporting industrial decarbonisation efforts in countries like India. Previously, she was a postdoctoral research fellow at Georgetown University, where she researched technology and policy options for industrial decarbonisation in the U.S.
What is it like to be a woman working on steel and heavy industry?
"I was apprehensive when starting work on the steel and industrial sector more broadly due to its male-dominated nature, but I’ve been inspired by the incredible women working on steel decarbonisation and their fierce advocacy. It’s been empowering to be surrounded by such passionate colleagues who are driving meaningful change. I hope we can accelerate the pace of steel decarbonisation while ensuring a just and equitable transition that benefits both communities and workers in the sector."
It's been very nice being a mentor and a point of call for other women. I like to think I've made other women in the industry proud. - Ashlea Muscat, BlueScope
Ashlea Muscat
Operations Manager Painting and Finishing Department, BlueScope
Ashlea joined the industry as a cadet in 2014 straight from university. After eleven years in the industry, she now runs the coil painting and finishing department at BlueScope’s Port Kembla Steelworks, looking after 126 people across 3 units and leading on day-to-day management, development, and process improvement across the department. Women now make up over 22% of BlueScope's site operators, a significant increase from 3% in 2017.
How did you get started in the steel industry?
"I first began in the industry as a cadet and I love all of the problem solving and challenging roles that I've held. It's been very nice being a mentor and a point of call for other women. I like to think I've made other women in the industry proud."
Aimee Boulanger
Executive Director, Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance
Aimee has worked on mining issues for over 25 years, with substantial experience in directly affected communities. She has served IRMA’s leadership since 2011 and her role is to guide an organisation which is fully accountable to multi-stakeholder leadership, creating market value for more responsible business practices while ensuring credibility and accountability to all stakeholders.
What are your hopes for the future of the steel and mining sectors?
"I hope for a future where companies that create the products we rely on every day are valued not just for what they make, but for how they make it, ensuring that people, their lands, and their wellbeing are respected at every step. This means greater transparency in industries like mining and steel, so we acknowledge our shared impact and work together to reduce harm. And as we do, I hope we centre the voices of women—whose leadership, labour, and lives are so often overlooked—so that the benefits of industry are shared more equitably by all."
I hope for a future where companies that create the products we rely on every day are valued not just for what they make, but for how they make it... And as we do, I hope we centre the voices of women—whose leadership, labour, and lives are so often overlooked—so that the benefits of industry are shared more equitably by all. - Aimee Boulanger, IRMA
Angelica Olsson
Manager - Safety and Sustainability, Outokumpu
Angelica has worked her whole career in different types of industries. Before joining Outokumpu, she worked for several years in the paper industry as well as in the sawmill industry. She's held various positions, but she has the most experience in Supply Chain Management. She joined Outokumpu in 2018 and her first role was as a Safety Engineer for fire and security issues. Since 2022, she has worked as a Safety & Sustainability Manager.
What is it like to work in the steel industry?
"The steel industry has been by far the most interesting and challenging industry that I’ve worked in. The products we produce are fascinating and we all need to work every day to ensure that the way we produce steel is safe and sustainable. In my role as a Safety & Sustainability Manager, I’m fortunate to work with a great team of safety and sustainability engineers, and together we work hard every day, enabling our mills to produce safe and sustainable stainless steel. I really feel that the work we do makes a difference."
Marnie Bammert
Independent Consultant to ResponsibleSteel
Marnie is an independent consultant with 20 years of experience in developing, implementing and communicating sustainability certification and verification programmes. She has worked with ResponsibleSteel since early 2018. Marnie started her journey in the field of sustainability with oekom Research AG, a rating agency specialised in sustainable and ethical investments. She then moved to the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), holding various positions including Deputy Director Europe. Since then, Marnie has worked as a consultant on projects ranging from protected areas to infrastructure, mining and nature-based solutions.
Why did you first begin working on the steel industry?
"People tend to focus on GHG emissions when discussing sustainability challenges of the steel sector. But the climate crisis cannot be solved in isolation. Working with ResponsibleSteel, I wanted to raise awareness for other important issues that the sector faces - human and labour rights, biodiversity, water stewardship, to name just a few. They are all connected to the climate question. I am proud to have played an instrumental part in creating the ResponsibleSteel Standard since it brings all of those issues together."
I envision a future for steel where much greater systems thinking, as well as intra- and inter- sector collaboration, drives progress - all enriched by the leadership of women. - Jen Carson, Climate Group
Jen Carson
Head of Heavy Industry, Climate Group
Jen Carson leads the strategy and growth of Climate Group's SteelZero and ConcreteZero. With a decade's worth experience working in the sustainability sector, she works to accelerate heavy industry decarbonisation. Jen joined Climate Group in 2021 after leading energy market research as an Associate at Delta-EE in Australia. Previously, she held various roles at Delta-EE, including creating its first cross-technology research service, as well as at The Carbon Trust, Dunelm Energy, and Kier Group.
What are your hopes for the future of the steel industry?
"I envision a future for steel where much greater systems thinking, as well as intra- and inter- sector collaboration, drives progress - all enriched by the leadership of women. By elevating the contribution of the demand side, and championing a competitive, decarbonised future, we will build a resilient steel industry that sets new standards for what is and isn't acceptable."
In conversation with IRMA and ResponsibleSteel: Exploring the role of standards in driving a responsible transition in steel and mining
ResponsibleSteel and the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) are collaborating on a joint project to better understand the social impacts of the net-zero transition for the steel and mining sectors and how standards can help guide good practice. This project is possible thanks to a grant from the ISEAL Innovations Fund, which is supported by the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs SECO.
We have asked the two project leads, Haruko Horii, Standards Manager at ResponsibleSteel, and Davidzo Muchawaya, Africa Regional Lead at IRMA, to answer a short Q&A for readers to better understand the project itself.
Q: Haruko, what is the vision for the project?
With this project, we want to understand the social impacts of the transition to net zero and what role standards can play in guiding good practice.
The term ‘just transition’ is used by different people in different ways. We need to determine what this looks like for the mining and steel sectors. What exactly is a just transition? Whose transition are we discussing? Workers, local communities or supply chains? What is the scope of transition? These are some of the questions we need to consider.
Decarbonisation could have adverse social impacts such as job losses or displacement and significant effects on weakening the economic viability of affected communities. Initial research has shown that communities are facing significant social impacts caused by the transition to low-carbon practices. For instance, thousands of people have lost their jobs as a result of shifting from blast furnace technology to electric arc furnaces. These job losses have in turn impacted the wider community’s economic stability, community identity, and overall well-being.
These are the types of issues we aim to identify through this project, assessing how voluntary sustainability standards (VSS) can address them, identifying gaps, and outlining steps for future, more detailed work that could lead to larger-scale initiatives. We’ll test our findings by engaging with workers, unions, business leaders, community organisations, and other relevant stakeholders to identify an agreed approach and create practical guidance for players in the mining and steel industry.
Q: Davidzo, what do ResponsibleSteel and IRMA have in common, and why are they collaborating on a just transition?
We believe in the power of collaboration and mutual recognition. This project is just one of many examples of how different voluntary sustainability standards can complement and leverage each other's work. Specifically, ResponsibleSteel leverages the assurance system of standards such as IRMA’s at mine site level, while focusing on the steel production aspects. Importantly, both ResponsibleSteel and IRMA were founded on a multi-stakeholder governance system, which has been recognised as a leading practice both by industry and NGOs. This model is recognised as best practice to ensure transparency, accountability, and inclusivity.
The collaboration specific to a just transition is born out of the necessity to ensure two hard-to-abate sectors, steel and mining, address the realities workers and communities are facing in our changing world as many existing mine and steelmaking sites face adaptation or closure. Given the varying impacts of decarbonisation across regions, IRMA and ResponsibleSteel are uniquely positioned to provide frameworks that apply across these different contexts since they are both standard-setting organisations operating globally. What is more, they are able to consider both decarbonisation and the potential social impacts of the transition at the same time.
Q: How do each of you respectively integrate just transition into your standards?
Haruko: Standards are going to play a critical role in promoting accountability during the transition ensuring they are fair and equitable. Although there is no explicit reference to a just transition in the current ResponsibleSteel International Production Standard, there are some elements to address the transition under Principle 4: Decommissioning and Closure, which requires consultation with key stakeholders to minimise any adverse impacts of site closures. In future, the scope of this principle could be expanded to address issues related to site closures, or the Production Standard could adopt a different approach by providing a just transition framework giving steel producers guidelines and tools to navigate an equitable transition with workers and affected communities. We plan to discuss these approaches with stakeholders in the next phases of the project. Integrating practices into the Production Standard will help ensure the industry’s transition is both environmentally and socially just.
Davidzo: As for the IRMA Standard for Responsible Mining, multiple chapters and requirements articulate what best practices could and should be for mining operations wishing to ensure a just transition for workers and affected communities. A prominent example is the requirement to involve affected communities and stakeholders in the development, design, and implementation of the mine rehabilitation and closure plan. Going beyond minimum transparency, the IRMA Standard outlines a series of requirements dedicated to the adequate estimation and financing of mine closure and post-closure. Research shows that mining operations often leave behind environmental and social liabilities, without taking charge of costs associated with the rehabilitation or appropriate closure of the sites thereby foregoing an adequate transition.
Crucially, the role played by both ResponsibleSteel and IRMA would not be the same without their multi-stakeholder governance systems. Thanks to the decision making process that takes into account private sector players as well as rights holders and labour unions, they can ensure that the voices of all parties are heard and taken into account in an equal way - hopefully adding the “just” element to “transition”.
Q: Davidzo, who is the main audience for this project?
The main audience for this project is workers and labour unions, as workers are most directly affected by the transition. Operators, from mining companies to steelmakers, are also key since, as employers, their actions and decisions will be critical to the social impacts of the transition, alongside national and subnational governments. Local communities impacted by the transition, NGOs that aim to act in their interests and standard-setting organisations are also key stakeholders.
Q: Haruko, is there a specific geographic focus for the project?
While just transition challenges and opportunities vary from country to country and even from site to site, the project is truly global as it strives to bring the complexities of these different realities to light. We aim to engage with stakeholders across different regions during the project to hear about the realities of the transition in different contexts. More information on this to come!
To find out more about IRMA, visit responsiblemining.net. To find out more about the project background, visit this page on the ISEAL website.
Davidzo Muchawaya is the Regional Lead for Africa at the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA), where she leverages her extensive 15-plus years of experience in responsible sourcing and sustainability to further IRMA's vision. This vision aims to create a world where the mining industry respects the human rights and aspirations of affected communities, provides safe, healthy and supportive workplaces, minimizes environmental harm, and leaves positive legacies. Davidzo's responsibilities include leading the development and implementation of strategies for regional outreach to extend and deepen engagement with a broad spectrum of stakeholders, such as civil society organizations, labour unions, and communities impacted by mining activities. Davidzo plays a role in facilitating the dissemination of IRMA's audit reports and implementing awareness initiatives to enhance understanding of the IRMA system among stakeholders.
Davidzo is currently co-leading an ISEAL-funded project that explores how voluntary sustainability standards can drive a responsible transition in the steel and mining sectors. The project aims to understand the social impacts of the industry's shift toward a low-carbon economy and the role of multi-stakeholder systems initiatives in ensuring a socially responsible transition.
Haruko Horii has 9 years of experience in the sustainability sector, including work with NGOs and a social auditing consultancy firm. In her previous roles with standard-setting organisations, she has worked on various social topics such as living wage, social impact assessment, and gender equality, while ensuring the team’s compliance with standard-setting best practices. Haruko is trained in social auditing (SA8000) and social impact assessment (IAIA). She has worked as a social auditor and consultant, assisting global companies in promoting human rights by developing social responsibility policies and strategies, and establishing assurance mechanisms through capacity-building activities, social audits, and assessments.
Haruko holds a Master’s degree in International Development from Wageningen University in the Netherlands.
Reminder: ResponsibleSteel auditor training session still has spaces available
Being trained and approved as an auditor is a prerequisite for conducting certification audits against the ResponsibleSteel Standard. The next online auditor training, being the last one in 2020, will take place from 29 September to 01 October 2020 with sessions each day from 14:00 CET to 19:00 CET. The participation fee is 300 USD per auditor.
Auditors wanting to participate in the online training, must:
- Review the auditor approval and qualification requirements in the ResponsibleSteel Assurance Manual to ensure they meet our requirements (chapter 1.5 and Annex 3)
- Complete the auditor application form in the Assurance Manual (Annex 2)
- Send the completed application form, a full and up to date CV and all mentioned documentation to assurance@responsiblesteel.org by 15 September
- Prior to the training, study the ResponsibleSteel Standard and Assurance Manual, which can be accessed via https://www.responsiblesteel.org/certification/.
Only auditors that are affiliated with a certification body who is an Associate Member of ResponsibleSteel and has been approved by ResponsibleSteel may carry out audits against the ResponsibleSteel Standard.
The first certification bodies to become approved were AFNOR Certification and GUTcert.
They have recently been joined by ERM CVS, the independent certification, verification and assurance business of ERM Group. ERM CVS provides clients with a full suite of certification & assurance services, assuring & verifying corporate sustainability reports, GHG inventories and footprints, as well as certifying EHS management systems and programs. ERM CVS has been an Associate Member of ResponsibleSteel since March 2020, in a move that now sees them add the ResponsibleSteel Standard (RSS) to a growing suite of Metals & Mining services, including the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) and the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI).
Out for Consultation: Draft Requirements for Responsible Sourcing
The existing ResponsibleSteel Standard with its 12 Principles covering environmental, social (ESG) and governance issues allows certified steel sites to claim that their site is operated in a responsible manner. While the approved Standard asks for a high-level commitment to responsible sourcing and for evidence that this commitment is being implemented, it does not provide incentives to steel companies and their suppliers to work towards high levels of ESG performance in supply chains.
ResponsibleSteel is in the process of defining further requirements for the responsible sourcing of input materials used for steel making and steel processing. Meeting these requirements in addition to the already approved Standard will allow steel sites to not only make claims about the way their site is operated, but also about their sourcing of input materials and the steel products they sell.
Following plenty of discussion with our Members and our Board, we have now published a draft version of the responsible sourcing requirements and are keen to hear your views on them. These requirements will be important to push demand for credible third-party verification of suppliers such as mine sites.
You can find the draft requirements, background information, options and consultation questions here on our website.
Please provide your feedback by 02 October 2020 via this google documents form.
Make use of this opportunity to help shape the steel sector of the future and create responsible supply chains!
ResponsibleSteel™ is Kicking off the Benchmarking of Mine Level Verification Programmes
Mining is a key supplier of materials to the steel sector and part of ResponsibleSteel’s mission is to ensure that certified steel sites source mined materials in a responsible manner. We aim to achieve this by recognising mine sites that demonstrate high levels of environmental, social and governance performance according to credible verification programmes. Building on joint work by ResponsibleSteel together with our associate members the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) and Mining Association of Canada’s Towards Sustainable Mining programme (TSM), we are now launching the development of a methodology to benchmark mine site verification programmes. Recognition by ResponsibleSteel will help raise the market profile and drive demand for credible mine site verification programmes.
The ResponsibleSteel certification programme is being developed to cover the entire steel supply chain from mine site or scrap collector through to the steel end user (e.g. the car, construction or white goods manufacturing company). The ResponsibleSteel Standard (version 1-0) can be applied directly at sites where raw materials are processed, and at steel making and steel processing sites. Upstream supply chain activities, such as mining or the collection of scrap, will be covered wherever possible through the recognition of existing programmes that set a similarly ambitious standard and run an equally robust assurance programme to ResponsibleSteel’s.
ResponsibleSteel has been working with IRMA and TSM to determine how ResponsibleSteel could use the outputs of their respective mine level verification programmes as the basis for such recognition. IRMA, TSM and ResponsibleSteel are also working with the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC), with the support of the ISEAL Innovations Fund which is resourced through the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), on the application of a ‘joint audit protocol’ to facilitate recognition across different programmes.
These efforts are now extended and ResponsibleSteel will soon present draft recognition criteria and a proposed assessment methodology to its members and stakeholders for feedback. Recognition of credible verification programmes is expected to include an assessment of:
- the standard(s) against which sites supplying material are assessed, for example mine site standards, or processing site standards, including consideration of the extent to which the standard addresses and aligns with the issues covered by the ResponsibleSteel principles and criteria;
- the system for determining whether the requirements of the standard have been met (verification), including consideration of the systems for resolving complaints or disputes in relation to such assessments;
- the extent to which the system and its outputs are transparent and accessible to stakeholders, and claims are clear and credible;
- the potential for multiple stakeholders to participate in the programme’s governance;
- commitment to ResponsibleSteel’s mission and vision, for example through ResponsibleSteel associate membership.
IRMA, TSM, International Tin Association (ITA) and Bettercoal have written to indicate that as soon as the criteria and process for ResponsibleSteel recognition have been finalised they will apply for formal assessment. The assessment methodology will be objective and transparent, and recognition is not guaranteed.
ResponsibleSteel welcomes expressions of interest from any additional programmes interested in applying for assessment.
ResponsibleSteel™ Welcomes ‘The Energy and Resources Institute’ (TERI) into Membership
ResponsibleSteel would like to welcome The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) into membership.
TERI is an independent, not-for-profit research organization working in the fields of energy, environment, and sustainable development. TERI has pioneered conversations and activities in these areas for over four decades, having a transformative impact on industries and communities. TERI’s headquarters are located in Delhi, with most of their work focused in India, although their work also covers the broader South Asia, South East Asia, Middle East, and African regions. For more information, please visit: https://www.teriin.org/
Dr Ajay Mathur, Director General of TERI has said “TERI has been working on improving the energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions of the steel sector in India for many years already. It is clear that greater international collaboration on technology innovation, policy development and, importantly, standard setting are required to accelerate further decarbonisation of this sector. To this end, TERI welcomes an opportunity to work with ResponsibleSteel to drive further action.”
“We are absolutely delighted to welcome TERI as an Associate member of ResponsibleSteel” said Ali Lucas, Executive Director, ResponsibleSteel. “Having TERI’s formidable and comprehensive knowledge of the energy sector, and their deep experience of working with a wide range of organisations across South and South East Asia will be incredibly helpful as we work to expand our work across these regions.”
Cobalt Institute (CI) joins ResponsibleSteel™
The Cobalt Institute (CI) is a non-profit Association composed of producers, users, recyclers, and traders of cobalt.
They promote the sustainable and responsible production and use of cobalt in all its forms. The CI acts as a knowledge centre for governments, agencies, academia, the media and civil society on all matters concerning cobalt. It represents the voice of the cobalt industry on all cobalt related issues and challenges including health, safety and environment, sustainability and responsible sourcing.
President of the CI, Dr Adam McCarthy said: ‘We are delighted to become part of the work of Responsible Steel, cobalt is found as an impurity in many forms of steel and we are committed to helping to ensure the sustainability of our value chain. The CI looks forward to contributing to this important work.
“Having the Colbalt Institute as an Associate Member of ResponsibleSteel is a really welcome addition” said Ali Lucas, Executive Director – ResponsibleSteel. “We know that the deep and broad knowledge and insight that the Institute has across the Cobalt sector, and the voices it represents will add real value to our work and discussions over the coming months and years.”
ResponsibleSteel™ Auditor Training Session Autumn 2020
Image Source: worldsteel / Seong Joon Cho
We are pleased to announce that we will offer another ResponsibleSteel online auditor training this year. The dates will be 29 September to 01 October 2020 with sessions each day from 14:00 CET to 19:00 CET, including breaks.
Note that participation in a training session is one of the prerequisites for becoming a ResponsibleSteel approved auditor. Only auditors that are affiliated with a certification body who are Associate Members of ResponsibleSteel and have been approved by ResponsibleSteel may carry out audits against the ResponsibleSteel Standard.
If any of your auditors or colleagues would like to register for this online training session, then please:
- Review the auditor approval and qualification requirements in the ResponsibleSteel Assurance Manual to see if you/they meet our requirements (1.5 and Annex 3)
- If so, complete the auditor application form in the Annex of the Assurance Manual (Annex 2)
- Send the completed application form, a full and up to date CV and all the mentioned documentation to mbammert@responsiblesteel.org by 15 September
- Prior to the training, participants must have studied the ResponsibleSteel Standard and Assurance Manual in full
Note that the training participation fee is 300 USD per auditor.
All the documentation listed above can be accessed via https://www.responsiblesteel.org/certification/.
ResponsibleSteel™ welcomes Heathrow into membership
Heathrow is the UK’s busiest airport, and in 2019 served over 81 million passengers. We pride ourselves on giving excellent service, our vision is to give the Best Airport Service in the World. We want to do this, whilst minimising our carbon footprint and operating as the hub airport for the UK, connecting people, families and businesses across the globe. As we work towards our recovery from the impacts of COVID 19, we are continuing with the activity of maintaining, enhancing and developing the airport, and our capital works programme (2019 capital spend at circa £650m), is highly dependent on key materials such as steel.
Darren Colderwood, Director of Infrastructure at Heathrow, said: “We are striving to develop low-carbon, sustainable solutions, where we use re-use existing hardware, reduce our use of new materials, optimise the materials that we do use, and reduce the carbon footprint of everything that we do, and we are delighted to be joining Responsible Steel. We see this as a key next step in our pursuit of working with sustainably-sourced, low-carbon products that help us to achieve our objectives whilst minimising our impact on the planet.”
“We are delighted to welcome Heathrow – one of the world’s busiest airports – as a business member of ResponsibleSteel” said Ali Lucas, Executive Director, ResponsibleSteel. “It is incredibly encouraging to see that companies such as Heathrow who, whilst navigating the challenges of recovering from COVID 19 – recognise that becoming a member of and working together with ResponsibleSteel can help to achieve their objectives of using low carbon, sustainable products.”
MobileGlobal joins ResponsibleSteel™
MobileGlobal operates in Western Australia as a consultancy for Technology, Mining and Energy companies. We believe that Green Steel provides a significant opportunity for business and the environment. Our philosophy is that Green Steel should be green end to end. Our approach is to apply our skills in equities research, economics, governance, risk and compliance and financial markets to provide a view of possible outcomes and scenarios in this vital and exciting area. We believe that these skills may be of assistance to ResponsibleSteel in future.
“Responsibly produced steel is clearly the future of the industry. The question is how is it likely to evolve? Economic and financial analysis provides the framework to the answer and MobileGlobal wants to be part of this” said Thomas Picton-Warlow, Managing Director, MobileGlobal.
“MobileGlobal join Responsible Steel at an important time as we continue to develop our certification and standards work.” Said Ali Lucas, Executive Director, ResponsibleSteel. “The experience that MobileGlobal bring with their skills in financial and economic analysis will be of real value as we navigate the next stages of this work programme, and we are extremely excited to welcome them as Associate Members.”
Teck joins ResponsibleSteel™ as a new Business Member
Teck is a diversified resource company committed to responsible mining and mineral development with business units focused on steelmaking coal, copper, zinc and energy, headquartered in Vancouver, Canada.
Teck’s approach to business has been guided by its pursuit of sustainability throughout its more than 100-year history, and responsible mining and mineral development has been fundamental to its long-term success.
Teck has recently updated its sustainability strategy to set new goals in eight strategic themes. This includes setting a goal to become a carbon-neutral operator by 2050. Teck is currently amongst the lowest-carbon intensity producers for steelmaking coal in the world, positioning it well for the transition to a low-carbon economy.
Marcia Smith, Senior Vice President, Sustainability & External Affairs, Teck, said: “Steel is an essential building block for society and Teck is committed to responsible production of steelmaking coal and zinc, which are both important inputs to the steelmaking process. Joining Responsible Steel is part of our focus on collaborating with our customers and mining peers to further improve environmental and social performance across the industry.”
“Having significant representation from all parts of the steel supply chain is extremely important to ResponsibleSteel which is why we are so delighted to welcome Teck as a Business Member.” said Ali Lucas, Executive Director, ResponsibleSteel. “Teck joins us at a critical stage in our development, we as an organisation have many projects underway, and having input from Canada’s largest diversified mining company will really strengthen our work programmes.”
An update from Matthew Wenban-Smith
A reflection from Matthew Wenban-Smith on his time as Executive Director:
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
I started working for ResponsibleSteel at the end of 2016, with a remit to review the work that had been completed to date on the establishment of the programme, and to propose ways forward. Three years later I am delighted to be passing on the management of that programme to Ali Lucas, my successor as ResponsibleSteel Executive Director.
I will continue to work for ResponsibleSteel as its Policy and Standards Director, along with my colleague Marnie Bammert in her expanded role as Assurance and Technical Director.
I would like to take a moment though to thank you all – members and non-members alike, and my board and colleagues on the secretariat team – for your help, encouragement and support over the last three years.
ResponsibleSteel is now an active collaboration of more than 60 member organisations, including leading mining companies, steelmakers, car makers, construction companies, civil society organisations, assurance bodies, consultancies and business associations – all committed to maximising steel’s contribution to a sustainable society. Together, we have developed the world’s first multi-stakeholder approved standard for responsible steelmaking, and we have launched an assurance programme to identify and support steelmakers who meet that standard.
And the most important word is ‘we’. I am proud to say that ResponsibleSteel is a genuine multi-stakeholder organisation. We work by bringing diverse organisations together, to create value that our members cannot achieve on their own: business value for our business members, and social and environmental impact for our civil society members and supporters.
There’s a long way to go, but we have made a start, and it has been a privilege to be involved. I wish Ali all the best in her new role.
And finally – if you believe in what we are doing, and are not yet a ResponsibleSteel member – what are you waiting for?
With my very best regards, and best wishes in these difficult times,
Matthew
ResponsibleSteel™ welcomes CarbonChain into membership
CarbonChain’s mission is to make supply chains green again. CarbonChain has built technology solutions to enable commodities companies to measure the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in their supply chains. This allows our customers to understand and mitigate the risks they face from carbon pricing and climate legislation, as well as unlock sustainability-linked opportunities such as interest rate discounts and access to green financing.
The CarbonChain platform allows metals traders, mining companies, and manufacturers to receive automated, detailed carbon reporting for their individual trades/transactions. Importantly, the reports include a carbon intensity figure showing the amount of carbon dioxide emitted per metric ton of product delivered to their end-customer (e.g. X tonnes of carbon dioxide emitted per Y tonne of steel produced and delivered). This enables customers to compare the carbon emissions intensity of their different supply chains and ultimately take action to mitigate their transition risk to moving to a low-carbon economy carbon risk (i.e., carbon taxes, green borders, etc).
Based in London, U.K., CarbonChain has been supported by the U.K. government’s innovation arm, Innovate UK, The Mayor of London’s Business Launch Program and the London Business School Incubator. In addition to metals & mining, they work with traders, producers, and manufacturers in oil & gas and agriculture sectors.
The CEO of CarbonChain, Adam Hearne, said: “Transparent supply chains are the hallmark of any sustainable businesses. We believe that taking proactive steps in carbon reporting is essential for measuring and managing carbon emissions. Given the importance that steel plays to achieving a low carbon future, we are excited to join ResponsibleSteel and work with its members to manage carbon emission reductions in a fair and responsible manner.”
Executive Director of ResponsibleSteel, Ali Lucas, said: “As ResponsibleSteel is involved more and more in the whole steel supply chain – from mining all the way through to end user – it is a really opportune time to welcome CarbonChain as an Associate Member. We are sure that with their deep skills and expertise in the supply chain arena we, and our other ResponsibleSteel members, will benefit greatly from their participation in our various work programmes and projects over the coming months.”
SCS Global Services joins ResponsibleSteel as an Associate Member
SCS Global Services is a global leader in third-party environmental and sustainability verification, certification, auditing, testing, and standards development. Its programmes span a cross-section of industries, recognising achievements in natural resource management, green building, product manufacturing, food and agriculture, consumer products, and more. Headquartered in Emeryville, California, SCS has representatives and affiliate offices throughout the Americas, Asia/Pacific, Europe and Africa. Its broad network of auditors are experts in their fields, and the company is a trusted partner to many environmental NGOs due to its dedication to quality and professionalism. SCS is a chartered Benefit Corporation, reflecting its commitment to socially and environmentally responsible business practices. For more information visit www.scsglobalservices.com.
“SCS Global Services has a long history with the Steel Industry which includes conducting Lifecycle Assessments for North American Steel and leading certification audits to standards in the mining and metals sector. Given that iron and steel make up over 90 percent of all the metal produced globally, a concerted effort on improving environmental and social performance in this sector is critical for our planet. SCS is looking forward to a productive partnership with Responsible Steel given the alignment of our missions,” states Stanley Mathuram, Vice President, SCS Global Services.
“This is a perfect time for SCS Global Services to join ResponsibleSteel. We are delighted to welcome them as an Associate Member, and really look forward to having them participate and share their knowledge and skills in a number of our priority programmes and projects over the coming months and years” said Ali Lucas, Executive Director, ResponsibleSteel.
