The steel sector emerges as the backbone of the circular economy

The transformation towards a circular economy is a priority set by the European Commission, emphasising the need to transition economic models from a linear approach (extraction, production, use and disposal) to a circular one. The latter promotes the extension of the life of materials to minimise their disuse and facilitate their reintegration at any stage of the product life cycle.

In this context, the steel sector plays a crucial role in promoting circularity across all economic sectors. The properties of steel, such as its ability to be reused, repaired, recycled, its durability and strength, coupled with its widespread use in a wide range of tools and machinery in various sectors, make this material central to driving circularity wherever it is used, thanks to its recyclability and long life.

The steel sector is also focused on improving the use of resources to make steel in the most efficient way and with the least possible environmental impact. A large part of the steel produced locally comes from the recycling of waste, mainly scrap. About 80% of the raw materials used in the sector’s melting furnaces are recycled waste, which, in conjunction with efficient energy management, leads to the production of high quality steels for different applications.

As part of a continuous effort to optimise its operations, the steel sector is experimenting with the use of pre-reduced materials obtained from non-polluting energy sources, with the aim of assessing their impact on raw material and energy consumption.

In addition, the sector manages and values the waste generated in its production processes. It promotes the use of a variety of secondary raw materials derived from steelmaking processes, such as slag, scale, refractory materials, lubricants, and steel dust, among others. It is relevant to mention that a large amount of these by-products are reintegrated as raw materials in the sector’s furnaces, and another significant part is destined for other sectors, such as construction (for roads, dams, cement), fertiliser production and many other uses, thus demonstrating a sustained commitment to sustainable practices.