According to Steel Dynamics, the goal is to lower emissions intensity from 0.94 metric tons of CO2e per metric ton of hot-rolled steel produced to 0.80 metric tons of CO2e per metric ton by 2030. However, the ultimate goal is to reduce emissions intensity to 0.12 metric tons of CO₂e per metric ton of hot-rolled steel produced by 2050. 

In setting the targets, the company’s 2022 starting point was independently verified. Steel Dynamics is the first company to have its base year starting point and targets certified by the Global Steel Climate Council (GSCC). Steel Dynamics is a founding GSCC company. 

“As GSCC steel producers begin to publish their interim and long-term emissions reduction targets, their ambition and commitment toward achieving the IEA’s 2050 net zero goal will accelerate. Our certification recognizes Steel Dynamics for its leadership on decarbonization and taking a forward-leaning approach to continue cutting emissions across the company,” said GSCC executive director Adina Renee Adler.

The targets include greenhouse gas emissions produced through hot rolling, including Scope 1, Scope 2 and upstream Scope 3 emissions. 

 “Steel is an integral component of the global economy and foundational to the world’s essential infrastructure. Specifically, lower-carbon steel is necessary for the transition to a lower-carbon global economy,” said Steel Dynamics chairman and chief executive officer Mark Millett. “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.”