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Global Steel Decarbonisation: From complexity to coherence

This paper offers a global review of steel decarbonisation and related policies, focused on an analysis of policies in two of the world’s three largest steelmaking regions and consumer markets: India and the European Union (EU). The paper highlights missed opportunities for synergies between policies and outlines the necessary steps towards increased policy coherence.

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Global Steel Decarbonisation: From complexity to coherence
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Steel decarbonisation is essential to achieving global climate goals, but the growing number of policies, regulations and frameworks governing the sector is creating increasing complexity. While governments are pursuing ambitious decarbonisation objectives, differing approaches to emissions accounting, trade measures, procurement requirements and reporting obligations risk slowing progress, distorting competition and discouraging investment.

In Global Steel Decarbonisation: From complexity to coherence, ResponsibleSteel examines the policy landscape shaping the transition to low-emission steel, with a particular focus on the European Union and India. The report begins by identifying contradictions between climate, trade and industrial policies, at both the national and global level. Then, it presents opportunities to improve alignment between said policies, and sets out practical recommendations to strengthen interoperability, traceability and the use of independently verified data across markets.

The report argues that greater policy coherence is essential to accelerating steel decarbonisation, supporting fair competition, enabling investment and creating trusted pathways for recognising and rewarding lower-emission steel production worldwide.

Download the full report to explore the findings and recommendations.

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