News

Going beyond decarbonisation: Key insights into delivering a just transition for steel and mining sectors

As the global decarbonisation effort has advanced, actors in the mining and steel sectors are under pressure to transform production processes, supply chains, and energy systems to meet climate goals. But alongside these changes lies an essential question: how do we ensure that the transition to a low-carbon economy is fair for the workers, communities, and regions that depend on these industries?

ResponsibleSteel and the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) set out to tackle this question in a joint project bringing together perspectives from across the mining and steel value chains. Together, in a recently published report, 'Driving just transitions in the steel and mining sectors', we explore how voluntary sustainability standards can help guide and support just transitions in two of the world’s most critical industries.

Putting people at the centre of the transition process

One of the strongest and most consistent key messages from the project and stakeholder engagement was the need to keep people at the centre of transition processes. Decarbonisation is often discussed in terms of technology, emissions targets, and industrial transformation. Yet transitions also reshape livelihoods, local economies, and social structures.

The report underscores that strong and inclusive planning is essential to avoid leaving workers and affected communities behind. This is further reflected in stakeholder perspectives, with one of the rights holders noting the disconnect between discussions around just transition and lived experience: “Just Transition is a confusing term. It does not reflect the realities we face.” Throughout the project, stakeholders repeatedly highlighted the importance of ensuring that transitions must not only be fast, but fair. Workers, Indigenous peoples, and affected communities must have a meaningful voice in decisions that shape their futures.

This reinforced an important insight: “just transition is not only about managing economic change. It is also about justice, rights, and participation.”

The power of social dialogue

Another key learning from the project was the central role of social dialogue. Across interviews and workshops, participants emphasised the need for ongoing engagement between workers, communities, companies, governments, and other stakeholders.

Early and inclusive dialogue is particularly critical when major changes are being planned, such as mine closures, technological shifts, or new supply chains. As one stakeholder reflected during the project, standards can help by requiring processes that support “stakeholder engagement and planning,” rather than defining rigid requirements.

Social dialogue is therefore not simply a consultation exercise. It involves sharing information, building capacity among stakeholders, and creating spaces where different perspectives can meaningfully shape decisions.

Voluntary sustainability standards can play an important role by creating frameworks that encourage transparency, accountability, and structured engagement.

One of the central questions of the project was how standards systems such as ResponsibleSteel and IRMA can contribute to just transitions in practice.

The Just Transition Framework for Voluntary Sustainability Standards

The focus of this project was the question of how VSSs such as ResponsibleSteel and IRMA can best contribute to driving just transitions in practice.

The project confirmed that many elements of existing standards already address issues relevant to just transition, including human rights due diligence, occupational health and safety, grievance mechanisms, and environmental management. At the same time, the project highlighted areas where further development may be needed. These include supporting worker retraining and skills development, strengthening value-chain-wide due diligence, and ensuring equitable access to the benefits of the low-carbon transition.

To help understand and identify the key elements for a just transition, the project undertook a literature review, mapping exercises of existing standards, key informant interviews, and two in-person workshops. Each activity provided valuable insights and information, which together formed the foundation of a framework that defines principles related to human rights, social equity, inclusive governance, and protections for workers and communities.

Significantly, the framework is not intended to be prescriptive or define minimum requirements. Instead, it serves as a reference point to help VSSs integrate just transition considerations in a way that reflects and is shaped by the realities of each region, industry, and community.

The value of collaboration

Transitions in mining and steel do not happen in isolation. They unfold across interconnected supply chains, regulatory systems, and communities. As a result, no single actor can drive meaningful progress alone.

Achieving a just transition requires coordination between many different actors, including companies, workers and unions, governments, civil society, investors, and standards systems. Collaboration between standards organisations themselves can also play an important role by aligning approaches, sharing knowledge, and creating stronger incentives for responsible practices across industries.

The concept of just transition continues to evolve. While there is growing recognition of its importance across governments, industries, and civil society, there is still uncertainty about what implementation looks like in practice and what responsibilities different actors should carry.

This project represents a strong joint effort with key stakeholders and an important step toward understanding how voluntary sustainability standards can contribute to that conversation.

Achieving just transitions will require sustained commitment, continuous learning, and inclusive engagement. Standards alone cannot deliver just transitions, but they can provide practical tools and shared frameworks that help stakeholders navigate complex transitions.

For ResponsibleSteel and IRMA, this work reaffirms our shared commitment to ensuring that the transformation of heavy industries supports not only climate goals, but also fairness, dignity, and opportunity for the workers and communities most affected by change.

Read ResponsibleSteel's and IRMA's joint report, 'Driving just transitions in the mining and steel sectors' here.

This project was made possible thanks to a grant from the ISEAL Innovations Fund, which is supported by the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research EAER State Secretariat for Economic Affairs SECO and UK International Development.

Read more

Celebrating International Women's Day: In conversation with the women shaping ResponsibleSteel

In recognition of International Women’s Day, we’re proud to spotlight some of the women who are helping shape a more responsible steel industry through their work at ResponsibleSteel.

Steel has historically lacked diversity, and inclusive perspectives are still underrepresented across the sector. Yet expanding gender diversity is essential—not only for building a stronger and more resilient industry, but for accelerating the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

“For me, the solutions we need to foster a strong, clean steel industry fit for the 21st century lie in foresight, insight, and a strong collaborative ethos. That has been my focus at ResponsibleSteel, and it is a focus shared by dozens of women across the sector, bringing both fresh perspectives and skills. That’s not something you could have said 10 years ago. There is a seismic shift happening in steel, and women should be very proud of the unique roles they are playing to keep the industry focused where it needs to be—on developing sustainably. Let’s keep at it, re‑imagining the industry, connecting ideas and plans, and finding the way forward so that together we ensure we only move ahead.” - Annie Heaton, CEO, ResponsibleSteel

In this video, members of the ResponsibleSteel team share their roles, their journeys into the organisation, and their hopes for the future of responsible steelmaking.

Top image courtesy of ArcelorMittal Brasil.

Read more

Reflections from China: ResponsibleSteel's CEO Annie Heaton discusses building interoperability across global standards

Interoperability: Building a bridge between global standards

ResponsibleSteel's quest for a coherent market for decarbonised steel in 2026 got off to a constructive start this month. Following the announcement of our landmark agreements with the Chinese Iron and Steel Association (CISA) and the Low Emission Steel Standard (LESS) at COP30, ResponsibleSteel was in China in January to kick off our work on interoperability with CISA. This work in China complements our parallel project with Brussels-based LESS.

The goal? To build trusted data and claims on decarbonisation.

During our trip, our Director of Programmes, Amy Jackson, our Decarbonisation Lead, Alli Devlin, and myself had the opportunity to:

  • Present to the Chinese steel value chain our C2F (China's low-carbon emission steel standard) interoperability MoU at CISA's annual LCA conference.
  • Connect with our Chinese members, including SKF, World Resources Institute (WRI), Climate Group, VAMA (Valin ArcelorMittal Automotive JV), Penglai Dajin, and some of our certification bodies working in China, including Afnor and China Quality Certification Centre (CQC).
  • Get to work on our C2F-ResponsibleSteel Interoperability Project, structuring the discussions around our Framework for Credible Interoperability.
  • Visit the 15mtpa Zhanjiang steel plant, where a new DRI-EAF line was launched in Dec 2025. This has involved the production to date of iron reduced with hydrogen in a 1mtpa DRI plant. Whilst this is currently produced from refined coke oven gas, the project is a hugely significant demonstration of the potential to produce hydrogen-based DRI at an industrial scale.
ResponsibleSteel's Decarbonisation Lead, Alli Devlin

What do ResponsibleSteel's interoperability projects look like in practice?

In short, interoperability means measuring emissions using rules that are as aligned as possible, and recognising the differences, to enable comparison on a like-for-like basis. Imagine the benefit this would bring for anyone wanting to distinguish what good looks like, for example, procurement teams, investors, and policymakers.

But making interoperability work in practice requires a lot more if we want a reliable, credible and sustainable system that generates high-quality, comparable data.

We've outlined the key components of this in our Framework for Credible Interoperability, which will inform both our work with LESS and CISA:

  • Aligned GHG accounting rules
  • A reliable calculation tool
  • A robust assurance mechanism
  • Credible claims protocols
  • Good governance, oversight and resourcing
  • Appropriate data management
  • Strong operations management systems

This is how markets are built: first with innovation, then with the necessary rules and systems that enable good information to flow – so that steel buyers can understand, investors can evaluate, and steelmakers can compete, based on emissions performance that everyone can trust.

ResponsibleSteel's CEO, Annie Heaton, and CISA's Deputy Secretary-General, Feng Chao
Read more

New report outlines key considerations for a just transition for mining and steel

Today, ResponsibleSteel and the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) published a landmark report, ‘Driving just transitions in the mining & steel sectors: The role of voluntary sustainability standards’, outlining how voluntary sustainability standards (VSSs) can help deliver fair and inclusive transitions as heavy industries globally move to decarbonise. It is the first report of its kind, jointly authored by VSSs from the mining and steel sectors.

Developed by ResponsibleSteel and IRMA, the report demonstrates how collaboration across the supply chain provides the necessary understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by both sectors to achieve a truly just transition for mining and steel. ‘Driving just transitions in the mining & steel sectors: The role of voluntary sustainability standards’ introduces nine key principles and five recommendations to help VSSs integrate just transition into their frameworks.

The report also reveals a significant gap—despite commitment at both government and corporate levels to just transition principles, implementation remains slow and inconsistent. With mining responsible for up to 10% of global energy-related emissions and steel also accounting for around 10%, accelerating decarbonisation in these sectors is critical. But without deliberate action, workers and communities most affected by these transitions risk being left behind.

ResponsibleSteel CEO, Annie Heaton, commented, “Decarbonisation is one of the most pressing global issues we face today. But if we ignore its social impacts, we risk serious unintended consequences. With around six million people employed in steel and another 20 million in mining—plus millions more in supply chains and communities that depend on these industries—industry must work together with workers, communities and governments to consider how to plan the transition to benefit people as well as the planet.”

Stakeholders involved in the project—including industry leaders, supply chain actors, academia, governments, trade unions, civil society organisations, local communities, and Indigenous groups—emphasised that these transitions must not only be fast, but fair, putting justice at the heart of industrial change.

IRMA Executive Director Aimee Boulanger observed, "This research shows that for voluntary standards to succeed, they must be structured to improve justice and inclusivity as they decarbonise and protect the environment."

Key findings from the report included:

  • Justice at the centre: Stakeholders recognised the urgent need to decarbonise but stressed that justice must guide transition planning.
  • Inclusive process: The specific definition of “Just Transition” is highly contested, with varying interpretations. Engaging stakeholders is key to effectively defining the transition scope, identifying social impacts, and shaping mitigation actions.
  • Restorative justice challenges: Addressing restorative justice remains complex, requiring deeper collaboration among governments, companies, VSSs, and historically impacted communities.
  • Flexibility: Just transitions will differ across contexts and sectors. Principles must remain adaptable to be effective.

Funded by the ISEAL Innovations Fund with support from the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), the report draws on international principles from the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the UN Working Group on Human Rights, academic justice theory, interviews with 35 stakeholders, and two in-person workshops held in Brussels and Johannesburg.

This work highlights the unique role VSSs can play in providing practical frameworks for implementation, accountability, and verification, setting a clear reference point for steel and mining companies to plan transitions in a way that is equitable and fair. Both ResponsibleSteel and IRMA will continue to engage with stakeholders to discuss the best way to integrate just transition principles into their respective systems.

Read the full report here.

For more information, please contact:

ResponsibleSteel: communications@responsiblesteel.org

Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA): info@responsiblemining.net

Read more

Evolving for Impact: Why We’re Revising the ResponsibleSteel International Production Standard

The ResponsibleSteel International Production Standard is the global benchmark for sustainable steelmaking, but a benchmark only matters if it keeps pace with change. Steelmakers face evolving challenges, including increasingly ambitious climate targets, shifting regulations, and rising expectations on social and environmental responsibility.

That’s why ResponsibleSteel is committed to continuous improvement, ensuring our Production Standard remains relevant and effective in driving progress towards the responsible production of near-zero steel.

What is the ResponsibleSteel International Production Standard?

The ResponsibleSteel International Production Standard consists of 13 Principles containing over 500 requirements for the responsible sourcing and production of steel, including some of the most challenging areas of sustainability for steelmakers, such as decarbonisation. However, responsible steelmaking goes beyond climate change mitigation. That’s why the Production Standard also lays out requirements on labour, human rights, water, biodiversity, and more.

How was the Production Standard developed?

The Production Standard was developed through a process that uses the ISEAL Code of Good Practice for standard-setting as a reference. The first Standard was developed over two years with input from over 70 organisations and 180 individuals. Since then, the Standard has continued to evolve with the needs of the industry. Read more about the evolution of ResponsibleSteel and the development of the Standard here.

Collaboration and transparency sit at the heart of our Standard. Our extensive multi-stakeholder development process involving the steel industry, upstream and downstream stakeholders, and civil society is what makes the ResponsibleSteel International Production Standard the most trusted standard for steel globally.

Why are we revising the Production Standard?

Since the launch of the first Standard in 2019, ResponsibleSteel has established itself as a leader on steel sustainability. As the global industry landscape continues to evolve, driven by shifting regulations, emerging ESG reporting requirements, technological innovation, and growing expectations to address social and climate issues, the Production Standard must also evolve.

As part of our commitment to continuous improvement, ResponsibleSteel reviews the Production Standard to assess whether revision is needed at least once every five years. This way, we ensure the Production Standard remains effective in supporting ResponsibleSteel’s mission to drive the responsible production of near-zero steel.

What is the standard revision process?

The revision process is outlined as part of ResponsibleSteel’s Standards Development Procedures. The process consists of five overarching stages:

  1. The ResponsibleSteel Secretariat reviews the Standard and holds a public consultation to determine topics for revision. Based on these inputs, the Secretariat makes a recommendation to the ResponsibleSteel Board of Directors, which decides whether or not to revise the Standard.
  2. Terms of Reference are developed, then approved by the Board of Directors, defining the scope of the revision and outlining the revision process.
  3. Topic-based Working Groups provide input on revision areas, and Technical Advisory  Groups are convened to review and oversee Working Group outcomes.
  4. A draft of the revised Standard undergoes public consultation to get stakeholder feedback. If there is substantially new content, or extensive changes or feedback, there is a second round of public consultation. Once the revised Standard is finalised, it is reviewed and approved by the Board of Directors before being voted on by ResponsibleSteel’s membership.
  5. The revised Standard is published, and a transition period is determined (usually lasting 6 to 12 months) before the new Standard comes into effect for existing certificate holders, however, it could be used earlier for new sites or if preferred by existing certified sites.

Currently, the revision process is in stage three.

What is being revised in the Production Standard?

The revision process focuses on ensuring the Production Standard reflects the latest sustainability priorities and realities of steel production. So far, discussions have commenced on aspects of Principle 10: Climate Change and GHG Emissions, Principle 6: Labour Rights, ensuring a just transition, and increasing alignment with emerging regulations and other standards (e.g. CRSD, ISSB).

Additionally, the revision will include the incorporation of urgent revisions, interpretations and clarifications previously issued, and necessary amendments identified during the review process (e.g. typos).

Who can get involved?

Driving the socially and environmentally responsible production of near-zero steel is a challenge that no single organisation can achieve on its own. Over 180 voices contributed to the development of the first ResponsibleSteel Standard, and this spirit of multi-stakeholder collaboration continues to be the backbone of our standards development process.

ResponsibleSteel members have a unique opportunity to contribute to the revision of the Production Standard and are invited to join our Working Groups to discuss topics for revision. Please get in touch with us to learn more.

Members and wider stakeholders are also encouraged to contribute feedback during public consultations in 2026. Keep an eye on our website, LinkedIn, and our monthly newsletter to find out about upcoming public consultations.

Learn more about the revision process and get involved here.

Read more
Category
Year
tag
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Aperam Becomes First Stainless Steel Company to Earn ResponsibleSteel Certification

23 September 2021 – ResponsibleSteel is delighted to announce, at an event hosted by Aperam, that the company’s Stainless Steel operations in Europe successfully passed third-party audit against the ResponsibleSteel Standard – the global sustainability standard for the steel sector.

ResponsibleSteel CEO, Anne-Claire Howard, said: “I am delighted that Aperam, a ResponsibleSteel™ Member since 2019, is the first stainless steelmaker to be awarded our certification for their European Stainless Steel operations. The ResponsibleSteel™ Standard, created by the steel sector’s only truly global multi-stakeholder initiative, contains a very exacting set of ESG criteria which we hope gives business and consumers confidence that the site at which the steel is being produced is operated responsibly. I would like to congratulate the teams at Aperam who supported the development of the ResponsibleSteel™ Standard and are now able to see it implemented at five sites in France and Belgium. We look forward to continuing to work together on the next phase of our journey – Certified Steel.”

The ResponsibleSteel Standard was developed over three years through wide ranging public consultation with industry and civil society. It contains 12 principles with a wide range of criteria covering issues such as: health and safety, greenhouse gas emissions, water stewardship and biodiversity, human rights and labour rights and community relations. It is the world’s first and only global definition of what constitutes leading practices in environmental, social and governance (ESG) responsibility for steel production.

The audit of Aperam’s facilities took place in June and included Aperam’s Châtelet, Genk, Gueugnon, Isbergues and Saint-Denis sites in Belgium and France.

Mr. Timoteo Di Maulo, Chief Executive Officer and Member of the Leadership Team, said: “Aperam becoming the first stainless steel player to be certified under the ResponsibleSteel™ Standard is reassurance to our stakeholders that we produce responsibly. With Aperam, our customers have selected a partner of choice, offering them responsibly produced solutions that are also 100% recyclable and low carbon – solutions that are much needed for the sustainable society we strive to live in. At Aperam, we are convinced that true business success can only come together with social and environmental sustainability and we will pursue our strategy to further embed sustainability within all our processes. Aperam is proud to be the frontrunner of its industry in the field of Corporate Responsibility and we are delighted that all our teams’ efforts on sustainability and responsibility, already evidenced by our state-of-the-art CO2 footprint, are now fully recognized with an all-encompassing third-party certification of our processes at Stainless Europe.”

About ResponsibleSteel

ResponsibleSteel is an international, non-profit multi-stakeholder membership organisation. Businesses from every part of the steel supply chain, civil society groups, associations, and other organisations with an interest in a sustainable steel industry from anywhere in the world are welcome to join. To view the ResponsibleSteel membership list visit: https://www.responsiblesteel.org/about/members-and-associates/

ResponsibleSteel’s vision is that steel’s contribution to a sustainable society is maximised. Its mission is to enhance the responsible sourcing, production, use and recycling of steel by:

  • Providing a multi-stakeholder forum to built trust and achieve consensus;
  • Developing standards, certification and related tools;
  • Driving positive change through the recognition and use of responsible steel.
  • The ResponsibleSteel Standard is designed to support the responsible production of steel, as a tool for the achievement of ResponsibleSteel’s vision.

Find current issued certificates and their public audit summaries here.
For more information about ResponsibleSteel please visit: https://www.responsiblesteel.org/

For media enquiries contact:

Anne-Claire Howard, CEO                       +44 (0) 7787 411 461
Ali Lucas, Communications Director     +44 (0) 7786 546 724

About Aperam

Aperam is a global player in stainless, electrical and specialty steel, with customers in over 40 countries. The business is organised in three primary operating segments: Stainless & Electrical Steel, Services & Solutions and Alloys & Specialties. Aperam has a flat Stainless and Electrical steel capacity of 2.5 million tonnes in Brazil and Europe and is a leader in high value specialty products. In addition to its industrial network, spread over six production facilities in Brazil, Belgium and France, Aperam has a highly integrated distribution, processing and services network and a unique capability to produce stainless and special steels from low cost biomass (charcoal made from its own FSC-certified forestry). In 2020, Aperam had sales of EUR 3,624 million and steel shipments of 1.68 million tonnes.

For further information, please refer to our website at www.aperam.com

Contact

Corporate Communications / Laurent Beauloye: +352 27 36 27 103
Investor Relations / Thorsten Zimmermann: +352 27 36 67 304

September 24, 2021
2021
News
Read more

August 2021 Newsletter

Please view our August 2021 newsletter by clicking the link below:

Click here.

August 23, 2021
2021
Newsletter
Read more

The Net-Zero Steel Pathway Methodology Project (NZSPMP)

The final report and recommendations for the Net Zero Steel Pathway Methodology Project (NZSPMP) were published on 26th July. The full report can be downloaded here and the full press release can be seen here.

The project was set up in response to the view of many steelmakers that while they were supportive of the value of ‘science based targets’ (SBTs) for decarbonisation in line with the achievement of the goals of the Paris Agreement, they were concerned that key aspects of the specific methodology for defining a science-based target as developed by the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) needed to be refined to recognise the characteristics of the steel sector.

The project has been led by a steering group consisting of 4 steelmakers (ArcelorMittal, Tata Steel, BlueScope Steel and GFG Alliance) together with ResponsibleSteel and worldsteel. Another 11 steel companies, and the German steel association have taken part as members of the project’s technical working group. Civil society organisations were briefed on progress through the project’s stakeholder reference group. ResponsibleSteel has been responsible for the project’s management, on behalf of the steering group as a whole.

The final report makes a number of recommendations which will be considered by the SBTi as an input for the development of SBTi steel sector guidance, due to start later in 2021.

The project’s recommendations do not represent a ResponsibleSteel position. The ResponsibleSteel Secretariat did not have a mandate to agree a position on its members’ behalf, and the process was not designed with this in mind. We agree with Adair Turner, Chair of the Energy Transitions Commission, that the report is a significant step, not a final product. Work is now needed by all stakeholders to review the report’s recommendations, and to consider what it means for their own work in relation to reductions of the steel sector’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

For ResponsibleSteel the report is important for a number of reasons. Firstly, the current ResponsibleSteel Standard (v1-1) requires that the corporate owner of any ResponsibleSteel certified site must have, “defined and made public both a long-term emissions reduction pathway, and a medium-term, quantitative, science-based GHG emisions reduction target or set of targets for the corporation as a whole”. The standard requires that steelmakers make their projections in relation to the use of primary as well as recycled steel explicit, together with their assumptions about public policy. The NZSPMP’s recommendations are well aligned with this approach. The ResponsibleSteel standard already recognises SBTi validated targets as meeting some specific requirements. We hope that the report’s recommendations will help more steelmakers develop SBTi validated targets in future, and so facilitate their ResponsibleSteel certification.

Secondly, the report considers a number of the same issues that are also currently under discussion in the ongoing development of the ResponsibleSteel requirements for ‘steel certification’. The NZSPMP report is focussed on company level target setting, but the need for consistent scope boundaries, a consistent and transparent approach to upstream and downstream Scope 3 emissions, and to the allocation of emissions to co-products – these are all issues that will need to be addressed at site level through the ResponsibleSteel requirements for steel certification. Different stakeholders will have their own views on the specific recommendations for the NZSPMP report – you may agree with some and disagree with others. But whether you agree or disagree with the recommendations themselves, we hope you will agree that they are worthy of consideration and discussion.

“ResponsibleSteel welcomes the publication of this important work” says Anne-Claire Howard, CEO ResponsibleSteel. “Steel is critical to human development and the world economy – but the industry has to reduce its net GHG emissions to zero within the next 30 years. Every steel company needs to plan its own pathway to achieve this, and to do so urgently. We look forward to seeing the recommendations in this report leading to the rapid development of credible, practical, comparable net zero GHG emission company targets and pathways by steel makers. There is no time to waste.”

July 26, 2021
2021
News
Read more

July 2021 Newsletter

Please view our July 2021 Newsletter by clicking the link below:

Click here.

July 21, 2021
2021
Newsletter
Read more

Press Release: ResponsibleSteel announces world’s first certified steelmaking sites

ResponsibleSteel has awarded the world’s first certification to four steelmaking sites in Belgium, Germany and Luxembourg owned by ArcelorMittal. The sites are the first steel plants to be audited and pass the rigorous standards laid out in ResponsibleSteel’s certification program.

ResponsibleSteel’s Standard was developed over three years through wide ranging public consultation with industry and civil society. The Standard – the first of its kind in the global steel industry – achieved multistakeholder consensus and was approved by a majority of business and civil society members including IUCN, Fauna and Flora International, IndustriALL, CDP, The Climate Group, ArcelorMittal, BlueScope, voestalpine, Aperam, AngloAmerican, BMW and Daimler.

Anne-Claire Howard, ResponsibleSteel CEO said: “I am delighted that the first steel sites assessed against the very exacting set of criteria required in the ResponsibleSteel Standard have been approved. The ResponsibleSteel Standard was created by the steel sector’s only truly global multi stakeholder initiative. The current Standard gives business and consumers confidence that the site at which the steel is being produced is operated responsibly. The next phase in our journey, Certified Steel, will further reassure business and consumers that the steel they use has been not only produced responsibly but also sourced responsibly at every stage of its journey.”

She said: “I would like to congratulate the teams at ArcelorMittal who have supported the development and now the implementation of the ResponsibleSteel Standard at these first sites in Europe. This is a ground-breaking moment for both ResponsibleSteel and the steel sector. I’m excited to work with the growing number of ResponsibleSteel members and am convinced that the pipeline of steel sites working to achieve certification will continue to grow over the coming months. This will send a clear and strong message to markets, investors, financiers and governments that the steel industry’s intent to not only decarbonize steel production, but also to ensure responsible ESG practices in steel making has well and truly begun.”

The ResponsibleSteel Standard contains 12 principles with a wide range of criteria covering issues such as: health and safety, greenhouse gas emissions, water stewardship and biodiversity, human rights and labour rights and community relations. It is the world’s first and only global definition of what constitutes leading practices in environmental, social and governance (ESG) responsibility for steel production.

Geert Van Poelvoorde, CEO ArcelorMittal Europe said: “Responsible production techniques and high ethical and business standards have become increasingly important to our customers and consumers. ResponsibleSteel certification gives our customers the reassurance that we meet expectations on setting carbon reduction targets, as well as meeting expectations on environmental and social standards at every stage of production. The certification process has involved many teams across ArcelorMittal, and I would like to congratulate them for their hard work in being the first sites to achieve ResponsibleSteel certification – this is a major achievement.”

Explaining what the business has learned from the ResponsibleSteel certification process, Mr Van Poelvoorde said:

“In particular, the ResponsibleSteel process has helped us to improve our social management approach towards our rights holders, including our local communities, our employees, and the contractors working on our sites. While social sustainability has always been an important topic for us, ResponsibleSteel has taught us to take a more management systems-based approach to areas such as human rights, diversity and labour rights. As a result, our aim is to now manage social topics with the same systematic rigour with which quality, environment and safety topics are handled.”
He added: “Given the considerable investments we have already made to achieve a 30% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2030, and carbon neutrality by 2050, as well as our broader environmental investments across our sites, I’m confident that we will achieve our goal of securing certification in each of our Flat Products sites early in 2022.”

The Chair of ResponsibleSteel and Executive Vice-President of BlueScope Steel, Gerry Tidd, congratulated ArcelorMittal and said: “ArcelorMittal proved its dedication to the task of improving its sustainability. It invested resources early to achieve this, and today’s certifications are its reward. All the members of ResponsibleSteel salute their achievement.

“Importantly, the ResponsibleSteel Standard is now real, in the marketplace, and stands as a credible marker for consumers to judge a steel company’s ESG credentials. The Standard is the result of hard debates and collaboration between the steel industry, its upstream suppliers, its downstream customers and with civil society who all worked together to solve a complex problem and develop a new Standard. ResponsibleSteel is still a young organisation but it has attracted a wide group of pioneers from across the union movement, environmental groups, the finance sector, consumers and of course the global steel industry. Today’s award is also their award.”

Deputy Chair of ResponsibleSteel and Global Director, Forests and Land at CDP, Tom Maddox, said, “Arcelor Mittal is the second largest steelmaker in the world and it has led the way, showing the steel sector it can produce steel in a more responsible way. Looking forward, the task now is to develop the Standard to go beyond Site Certification, to Steel Products Certification and the responsible sourcing of input materials and greenhouse gas emissions. Achieving this will ensure ResponsibleSteel, together with our Business and Civil Society members, continue towards our vision: to maximise steel’s contribution to a sustainable society.”

Watch the announcement event here.

About ResponsibleSteel

ResponsibleSteel is an international, non-profit multi-stakeholder membership organisation. Businesses from every part of the steel supply chain, civil society groups, associations, and other organisations with an interest in a sustainable steel industry from anywhere in the world are welcome to join. To view the ResponsibleSteel membership list visit: https://www.responsiblesteel.org/about/members-and-associates/

ResponsibleSteel’s vision is that steel’s contribution to a sustainable society is maximised. Its mission is to enhance the responsible sourcing, production, use and recycling of steel by:

  • Providing a multi-stakeholder forum to built trust and achieve consensus;
  • Developing standards, certification and related tools;
  • Driving positive change through the recognition and use of responsible steel.

The ResponsibleSteel Standard is designed to support the responsible production of steel, as a tool for the achievement of ResponsibleSteel’s vision.

Find current issued certificates and their public audit summaries here.

For more information about ResponsibleSteel please visit: https://www.responsiblesteel.org/

For media enquiries contact::

Anne-Claire Howard, CEO                                                 +44 (0) 7787 411 461
Ali Lucas, Communications Director                               +44 (0) 7786 546 724

July 20, 2021
2021
Press Releases
Read more

June 2021 Newsletter

Please view our June 2021 Newsletter by clicking the link below:

Click here

June 17, 2021
2021
Newsletter
Read more

April 2021 Newsletter

ResponsibleSteel consultation on GHG and Input Materials Standards

We are pleased to announce the 2nd public stakeholder consultation on the revised draft requirements for the ResponsibleSteel ‘Steel Certification’. The consultation will be open for 30 days, closing on 19th May 2021.

The draft requirements address the responsible sourcing of input materials and define GHG emissions performance thresholds for steelmaking. They are designed to supplement the existing requirements of the ResponsibleSteel Standard (v1-0). ResponsibleSteel certified sites that meet the additional requirements would be able to market and sell ResponsibleSteel certified steel, co-products and by-products.

These are challenging issues, and it is important that we get the requirements right since they will be key for achieving our vision of “maximising steel’s contribution to a sustainable society”. We are keen to receive your feedback on the draft proposals, as well as any suggestions on other options that are better placed to achieve our goals.

You can find the draft requirements, background information and consultation questions in separate documents on the responsible sourcing of input materials, and on GHG emissions, here.

Please provide your feedback by 19 May 2021 on the forms through these links:

For feedback on the draft requirements for the responsible sourcing of input material:
https://forms.gle/NYZa91ktrSWQY4Wx9

For feedback on the draft requirements for GHG emissions:
https://forms.gle/WmAsPwGfKaik8htF9

The US Steel Corporation joins ResponsibleSteel

ResponsibleSteel welcomes US Steel as the first North American Steel Maker to its membership. The United States Steel Corporation announced today its membership in ResponsibleSteel, with the following statement.

“ResponsibleSteel is an important part of U. S. Steel’s ESG commitments and the 2050 carbon neutrality goal that we just announced,” said U. S. Steel President and Chief Executive Officer David B. Burritt. “By joining ResponsibleSteel we are demonstrating our intent to take our efforts beyond goals and actually deliver profitable solutions for our stakeholders and the planet.”

GHG Emissions Intensity Performance Thresholds for Crude Steel

The new draft requirements for the ResponsibleSteel certification of steel were published for consultation this week – see elsewhere in this month’s newsletter.

One critically important aspect of the new draft requirements is the proposed threshold level of performance for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for crude steel production. Steelmakers would need to have GHG emissions below this threshold in order to sell their steel (and potentially other co-products and by-products) as ‘ResponsibleSteel certified’.

The proposed threshold developed by ResponsibleSteel considers all significant GHG emissions for the production of crude steel ‘from mine to metal’, including the emissions associated with the mining of raw materials, and also takes account of the proportion of scrap and iron ore used as an input material. By doing so it creates a level playing field for comparing GHG emissions for all steelmaking irrespective of production technology and site configuration, and provides a basis for steel users and specifiers in both the public and private sectors to source steel responsibly, without shifting emissions from one country, project or steelmaker to another.

ResponsibleSteel worked with the consultancy CRU to test and quantify the proposed approach using CRU’s international site-level GHG emissions modelling and analysis. In March, our Policy & Standards Director, Matthew Wenban-Smith, together with Paul Butterworth, Head of Steel Analysis at CRU, presented the results of the work and the thinking behind the ResponsibleSteel model. A recording of the webinar and accompanying slides are available from the ResponsibleSteel website.

ResponsibleSteel is hiring an Operations Coordinator

Are you looking for an opportunity to join a small team working to help achieve net zero carbon emissions for the steel sector by 2050? We are looking for a part-time Operations Coordinator (remote working) to support the ResonsibleSteel CEO and team in the implementation of the ResponsibleSteel programme. This could lead to a full-time role in 2022.

For more info please see the resources page.

BSI ANZ Pty Ltd joins ResponsibleSteel as an approved auditor

BSI has become a ResponsibleSteel approved auditor to provide credible third-party verification of the standard. BSI provide the highest of level credibility and integrity to ensure the implementation of the ResponsibleSteel standard.

worldsteel has announced their “champions” for 2020

ResponsibleSteel would like to congratulate all 9 companies who have been announced as worldsteel 2020 Champions. All of these organisations have met the criteria set out by worldsteel on demonstrating their commitment to continuing sustainable development.

April 22, 2021
2021
Newsletter
Read more

ResponsibleSteel & CRU Webinar (March 2021)

GHG Emissions Intensity Performance Thresholds for Crude Steel

The webinar recording is split into two sections: in the first Matthew Wenban-Smith (Policy & Standards Director at ResponsibleSteel) presents the ResponsibleSteel GHG emissions performance threshold from the CRU data. In the second Paul Butterworth, Head of Steel Analysis, presents the technical data behind the proposed approach. An edited version of the webinar slides is available for download from the link.

Video Player
Video Player
April 6, 2021
2021
Events
Read more

‘Green Steel’

Steel production, and by extent the whole steel value chain, is facing intense scrutiny from policy makers and the public alike as protecting the environment and climate change rise on the global political agenda. Mainstream media is awash with articles showcasing new low carbon steel technology or so-called “green” steel.  But there is no agreement about what the concept of “green steel” refers to.  With this emerging new ‘label’ comes the risk of a backlash against unconsidered ‘green’ claims.

We have analysed this fast-moving space and the implications for the steel sector as well as the work of ResponsibleSteel itself. There are some key points that we believe should be considered:

Words matter. We think it is critically important that the term “green steel” should not address GHG emissions alone. We cannot be silent on the wide range of social, safety and environmental issues which are important to steel companies’ investors, customers and other stakeholders. Safety comes high on the list of concerns, as does the impact of mining where issues such as tailings dams, relations with Indigenous Peoples and local communities, human rights concerns and impacts on water and Protected Areas also come to mind. We would strongly advocate that any entity offering “green steel” would have to show how it addresses the range of social and environmental concerns and not only GHG emissions.

This means there is a clear choice – either not to use the term ‘green’, and to use instead a term specific to GHG emissions. Or, to address the other key issues that justify the use of the broader term.  There are arguments for either of these options.  For ResponsibleSteel, our decision is clear.  Our mission is to maximise steel’s contribution to a sustainable society, and we believe that the range of issues must be addressed together, through an integrated approach.  Steelmakers that want to demonstrate social and environmental responsibility need to show how they are responding to the challenges of climate change, but also to show how they are addressing other key social and environmental challenges facing the industry.

We do not believe this broader approach stands in the way of successfully responding to climate change.  In fact, quite the opposite.  The reduction of GHG emissions and the challenges of addressing other ESG impacts are not susceptible to quick fixes.  Steelmakers, steel users and their suppliers need the long-term support of a broad range of stakeholders – including civil society organisations, investors and governments – on this journey.  The support will be that much stronger for companies that address the range of issues, and weaker for those that focus on just one issue at the expense of others.

ResponsibleSteel strongly supports organisations in taking a broad approach to the issue of ‘green steel’ – embracing the need not only to address climate change, but also to address other issues including biodiveristy and worker’s rights.  Three years ago there would have been an argument that the need to develop standards that address the steel sector’s GHG emissions is too complex, and too urgent, to be delayed by consideration of other ‘green’ issues.  Today, however, this is not the case.  The ResponsibleSteel Standard already exists and is applicable to steelmaking sites, with further requirements to allow for the certification of steel products nearing completion.  ResponsibleSteel’s membership includes steelmakers producing 170 million tonnes of steel per year such as Tata Steel, ArcelorMittal, voestalpine and Hyundai, major mining companies such as Anglo American, BHP and Teck, downstream users such as BMW, Daimler and Lendlease, as well as social and environmental organisations such as CDP, The Climate Group, the Clean Air Task Force, IndustriALL, IUCN, and Mighty Earth.  It is challenging to develop a standard for ‘green steel’ that commands multi-stakeholder support – we encourage organisations working on sustainability issues and steel not to duplicate this work, but rather to seek ways to build on the work that has already been done.

In relation to standards for ‘green steel’, we urge all organisations, businesses and governments, in the first instance, to consider how existing standards and methodologies, such as those of ResponsibleSteel, could be used in the context of steel procurement targets and specifications, including public procurement specifications, rather than through the development of new standards, definitions and methodologies: we believe this approach would be a faster as well as a more effective approach to create demand and to support the transition to net zero.

We welcome any feedback on this article and propose holding a webinar for ResponsibleSteel members and interested stakeholders to further discuss these issues later this year.

March 17, 2021
2021
Editorial
Read more

ArcelorMittal Eisenhüttenstadt audit

The ArcelorMittal site in Eisenhüttenstadt, Germany, is currently undergoing an audit to achieve ResponsibleSteel certification. The site develops and produces hot metal, semi-finished products, hot and cold rolled strips and coated coils and sheets.

Stakeholders may announce their interest in being interviewed by the auditors on the ESG performance of the site via this page, where they can also find further information on the ResponsibleSteel audit process.

Due to the Corona virus pandemic, the on-site visit to the site including interviews with site workers will take place at a later stage.

January 20, 2021
2021
News
Read more

Auditor training dates announced

The next ResponsibleSteel auditor training will take place from 03 to 06 May 2021. It will take place online from 09:00 CET to 13:00 CET each day.

Participation in a training is one of the prerequisites for becoming a ResponsibleSteel-approved auditor. 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.

Auditors who want to register for this online training should:

  • Review the auditor approval and qualification requirements in the ResponsibleSteel Assurance Manual to see if they meet our requirements (1.5 and Annex 3)
  • 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 (at) responsiblesteel.org by 15 April

Prior to the training, participants must have studied the ResponsibleSteel Standard and Assurance Manual.

The training participation fee is 300 USD per auditor. All the documentation listed above can be accessed here.

Note that our trainings are also open to employees of steel companies who are ResponsibleSteel members. Steel company participation is covered by their ResponsibleSteel membership fee. No documentation is needed, but steel company representatives have to confirm their participation to ResponsibleSteel by email.

January 20, 2021
2021
News
Read more

CSR Europe Joins ResponsibleSteel

CSR Europe, on the behalf of Drive Sustainability, has joined ResponsibleSteel as Associate Member.

CSR Europe is the leading European business network for Corporate Sustainability and Responsibility and facilitator of Drive Sustainability, the partnership of 11 leading automotive companies. Together, they have the vision to lead the shift towards a more circular and sustainable automotive value chain by leveraging a common voice and engage with suppliers, stakeholders, and other sectors. As steel is one of the most relevant materials for the products in the automotive sector, joining forces with Responsible Steel represents a milestone in Drive Sustainability’s approach.

“Drive Sustainability, representing some of the major global car producers with a collaborative agenda towards a circular and sustainable automotive supply chain will be a great asset in helping ResponsibleSteel and our members to develop applicable approaches and tools” said Ali Lucas, Executive Director of ResponsibleSteel.  “We are delighted to welcome CSR Europe as an Associate member and benefiting from their insight and experience”, continued Ali Lucas.

Stefan Crets, Executive Director at CSR Europe, said: “Steel plays a very important role when it comes to reducing carbon emissions in the supply chain or striving towards circular production and sustainable business models. ResponsibleSteel, as a standard and certification initiative has an important role to play within this context. A sustainable steel supply chain is crucial for the companies involved in Drive Sustainability, as it contributes to reach the strategic ambitions of the partnership from a social and environmental perspective. CSR Europe is looking forward working with ResponsibleSteel to help the ecosystem of the steel supply chain, especially producers and their upstream supply network, to move towards more responsibly sourced and produced steel.”

ABOUT CSR EUROPE

CSR Europe is the leading European business network for Corporate Sustainability and Responsibility. With our corporate members, National Partner Organisations (NPOs), and Associated Partners, we unite, inspire & support over 10,000 enterprises at local, European, and global level. We support businesses & industry sectors in their transformation and collaboration towards practical solutions and sustainable growth. We are for systemic change. Following the SDGs, we want to co-build with the European leaders and stakeholders an overarching strategy for a Sustainable Europe 2030.

January 20, 2021
2021
News
Read more
CertificationBecome certifiedCertification processCertified Steel: Strength to strengthIssued certificates and ongoing auditsApproved certification bodiesAssurance panel
Our Work
International Production StandardStandards developmentStandards recognitionTechnical advisory panelGHG emissions accounting & classificationGHG emissions dataSteel scrapSteel Decarbonisation ScaleJust transition
©2018ResponsibleSteel™  All rights reserved.  Site Maintained by KHULA®
Privacy policyTerms & Conditions
By clicking “Accept”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. View our Privacy Policy for more information.
Accept