India and Sweden to collaborate on green steel projects; other nations to team up

India and Sweden to collaborate on green steel projects; other nations to team up

Subject: Science and Technology

Section: MSc

What is green steel?

• It is the manufacturing of steel without the use of fossil fuels.
• “Green hydrogen” is one solution that could help reduce the steel industry’s carbon footprint.

Why do we need green steel?

Traditional steel production is energy-intensive and relies on the use of coal and other fossil fuels, resulting in significant carbon emissions and other environmental impacts. Green steel, on the other hand, seeks to reduce or eliminate these negative effects through various innovative methods and technologies.

Key elements and strategies involved in green steel production include:

Use of Renewable Energy: One of the most significant aspects of green steel production is the use of renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, and hydropower, to power steelmaking processes. This reduces the carbon footprint associated with energy consumption in the steel industry.

Hydrogen-Based Production: Green steel can be produced using hydrogen as a reducing agent instead of carbon, which significantly reduces carbon dioxide emissions. This method is known as hydrogen-based direct reduction.

Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): Green steel production may incorporate CCS technologies to capture and store carbon dioxide emissions produced during the steelmaking process. This helps mitigate the impact on the environment.

Use of Sustainable Raw Materials: Utilizing recycled steel (scrap) and other sustainable raw materials, as well as reducing the use of iron ore, can make steel production more sustainable.

Improved Efficiency: Implementing energy-efficient technologies and practices in the steelmaking process can reduce energy consumption and emissions.

Circular Economy Principles: Emphasizing recycling and reusing steel products and reducing waste can contribute to green steel production.

Environmental Standards and Regulations: Compliance with environmental regulations and standards, as well as certification processes that verify the sustainability of steel products, is also a part of green steel initiatives.

The transition to green steel is driven by the desire to reduce the carbon footprint of the steel industry, which is a major contributor to global carbon emissions. This shift is in line with global efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainability. Many steel producers are investing in research and development to adopt more environmentally friendly methods of