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Life cycle assessment of steel: Overview of steel production

The life cycle assessment plays an important role in the steel industry. It provides information about the entire life cycle and the environmental impact of steel.

We will introduce you to the various aspects of the life cycle assessment of steel and the multi-recycling approach. We will also discuss the role of the EMW Steel Service Centre in this context.

What is a life cycle assessment?

A life cycle assessment describes the environmental impact of a product. It analyses its entire life cycle, from the extraction of raw materials through production and use to recycling.

The aim of the life cycle assessment is to quantify the environmental impact and identify possible optimisation potential. Methods for preparing a life cycle assessment include life cycle analysis (LCA), which assesses the environmental impact of each phase.

Life cycle assessment in the steel industry

In the steel industry, the life cycle assessment covers all stages of the value chain, starting with the extraction of raw materials. It covers production, utilisation and steel recycling.

A comprehensive analysis enables a precise assessment of the environmental impact. It identifies potential for reducing emissions and the efficient use of resources.

Multi-recycling approach

The multi-recycling approach (MRA) was developed by the Technical University of Berlin. It offers a holistic method for the life cycle assessment of steel.

In contrast to traditional methods, the MRA takes into account all life cycles of steel, including repeated recycling processes. This significantly reduces CO2 emissions per tonne of steel. Studies show that CO2e emissions from steel production are around 50 % lower than from primary production alone.

CO2e emissions and environmental profile

The ecological footprint of steel is reduced with each recycling stage. The production of one tonne of steel then emits less than 1000 kg of CO2e when the entire life cycle is considered.

Quality and recyclability of steel

Steel is 100% recyclable and retains its properties at every recycling stage. This undiminished quality makes steel an ideal material for sustainable applications. Repeated recycling significantly reduces the environmental impact and the steel industry creates a solid basis for sustainable business.

Challenges of primary production

vs. Multi-Recycling

A significant difference between primary production and multi-recycling lies in the CO2e emissions and the environmental balance. While primary production causes higher emissions, the multi-recycling approach offers a more sustainable alternative.

This method takes into account the entire value chain and therefore contributes to a more comprehensive environmental profile. Focussing on primary production does not reflect the correct environmental profile. It does not take sufficient account of the repeated use and recyclability of steel.

Life cycle assessment for steel companies

Advantages

Implementing a comprehensive life cycle assessment offers steel companies considerable advantages. It improves environmental performance and optimises the use of resources and energy. It also supports companies in achieving sustainability targets and certifications.

Role of the EMW Steel Service Centre in the life cycle assessment

The EMW Steel Service Centre takes numerous measures to improve its life cycle assessment. We ensure the sustainability of our processes with certifications and quality standards. Our certifications such as ISO 14001:2015, DIN ISO 9001:2015 and IATF 16949:2016 are proof of our continuous striving for quality.

Our customer-orientated services and long-term partnerships also contribute to a positive environmental balance. Our storage capacities and just-in-time deliveries, as well as fully utilised means of transport, enable efficient use of resources and contribute to reducing emissions.

Life cycle assessment in the steel sector

Future prospects

Technological developments and innovations offer exciting future prospects for the life cycle assessment in the steel sector. The potential of the circular economy and continuous recycling open up new opportunities for sustainable steel production.

Long-term goals and trends indicate that the multi-recycling approach will continue to gain in importance. The multiple utilisation of scrap within the value chains is a key aspect for the sustainable development of the steel industry.

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