In alignment with the climate scheme proposed in the Paris Agreement, Steel Dynamics (SDI) has new greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions targets, Kallanish learns from the company’s statement. 

The Fort Wayne, Indiana-based steelmaker says it has set 2050 goals and an interim goal to achieve by 2030. For 2050, SDI aims for steel mill emissions intensity of 0.12 tonnes of CO₂e per tonne of hot rolled steel produced, based on the 1.5° C scenario set forth in the Paris Agreement. By 2030, SDI is targeting a 15% reduction in GHG emissions compared to its 2022 level. It targets 0.80t of CO₂e per tonne of hot rolled steel produced; the figure was calculated using emissions targets set forth by the Global Steel Climate Council (GSCC) Steel Climate Standard.

The GSCC sets targets for steel producer scope emissions and provides target certifications for steelmakers actively reducing GHG emissions consistent with the road map set forth by the Paris Agreement. 

SDI chief executive officer Mark Millett explains that the company is investing in reducing its steel mills’ carbon footprint to realise its targets. 

“In 2023, we achieved our previously announced 2025 GHG emissions intensity and renewable electrical energy goals ahead of schedule. Even though our emissions are already among the lowest in the industry, we are committed to further reducing our carbon impact and have an actionable path forward. As evidence of our dedication to this ongoing effort, among other projects, we are investing in an over $260 million biocarbon production facility that we expect will further decrease our Scope 1 emissions by as much as 35%,” Millett states.

One of SDI's strategies for reducing emissions is replacing anthracite in the steelmaking process with biocarbon. Biocarbon, states SDI, is a renewable and sustainable carbon source, unlike anthracite. Columbus, Mississippi, will house SDI’s biocarbon facility, which commenced construction in 2023 and is expected to begin operations in the first quarter of 2025. 

SDI implemented wind power use in the first quarter of 2024. The company uses wind power to satisfy 15% of its overall steel mill electricity needs. 

Millett contends: “Steel is an integral component of the global economy and foundational to the world's essential infrastructure. Specifically, lower-carbon steel is necessary to transition to a lower-carbon global economy. With these new targets and a proven track record of progress, we are demonstrating our commitment to continue making the steel required for a sustainable future."