Brussels, 21 April – Future Cleantech Architects (FCA) has published a new policy brief outlining how Europe can transition to low-carbon steel production. The report identifies six priority actions to accelerate innovation, particularly in ironmaking – the most emissions-intensive step in the steel value chain.
Following the publication of the Industrial Accelerator Act, Europe’s steel sector continues to face structural challenges. Volatile fossil fuel prices linked to geopolitical instability, reinforce the need for a more resilient industrial energy system.
The policy brief identifies six priority actions to enable low-carbon steel production in Europe:
- Set a clear trajectory to phase out coal in ironmaking.
- Secure affordable and clean electricity for both hydrogen-based steelmaking and direct electrification.
- Strategically redesign the green steel global value chain.
- Create lead markets and trusted global standards for green steel.
- Reduce long-term dependence on hydrogen by investing now in innovative primary steel production pathways.
- Circularity: Make Europe a leader in scrap quality upgrading.
“Our policy brief marks the pathway for transforming European steel industry,” said Dr. Marlène Siméon, Director of Policy at Future Cleantech Architects. “With aging blast furnaces approaching a critical refurbishment window, decisions made this decade will determine whether Europe locks in high-emissions production or accelerates the shift to low-carbon steel. This makes our six priority actions both practical and urgent.”
Together, these six measures can transform one of Europe’s most important industrial sectors and a major source of global greenhouse gas emissions – responsible for around 7% of global emissions. This is greater than the combined emissions of all 27 EU member states.
Download the policy brief: link
Media contact
Tal Harris, Head of Communications – Future Cleantech Architects
+41 78 253 05 50 tal.harris@fcarchitects.org