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Steel's Green Shift Falters Amidst Coal Reliance
11 May
Summary
- The steel sector is responsible for 11% of global carbon emissions.
- Greener technologies like electric arc furnaces lag behind coal.
- Continued investment in coal-based production jeopardizes climate goals.

The global steel industry's commitment to environmental sustainability is under threat due to persistent investment in coal-based production. As of May 11, 2026, this reliance poses a substantial risk to the sector's green transition.
The steel sector accounts for a significant 11% of the world's total carbon emissions. While innovative technologies like electric arc furnaces offer a path towards decarbonization, their adoption is not keeping pace with the continued expansion of coal-dependent facilities.
This disparity raises serious concerns about the industry's ability to meet climate objectives. The ongoing financial commitment to older, more polluting technologies hinders the effective implementation and scaling of greener steelmaking processes, jeopardizing future environmental targets.