The production of steel involves the production of valuable by-products. For example, slags are processed into building materials such as cement and aggregates providing a major contribution to the environment by reducing carbon dioxide emissions and the need for new raw materials. The steel industry has engineered a revolution in its performance over the last 20 years. There has been massive investment in new products, new plants and technology and in new methods of working. The result has been a dramatic improvement in the performance of steel products, and a related reduction in the energy and consumption of raw materials in their manufacture.
Steel is fully recyclable.
At the end of their useful life, products containing steel can be converted back into 'new' steel ready for other applications. As a result, steel is one of the world's most recycled materials. There are thousands of grades of steel. Recent developments have enabled the steel industry's customers to improve their products through better corrosion resistance, reduced weight and improved energy performance. This improvement is seen through a wide range of products including passenger cars, packaging and construction materials.