BlueScope Steel Limited has announced the release of its FY2024 Sustainability Report, outlining its progress and future plans towards creating a more sustainable and environmentally friendly steel manufacturing process.
The report highlights significant achievements in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, promoting responsible supply chain practices, and fostering a safe, inclusive workplace.
Sustainability leadership and global recognition
BlueScope has received global recognition for its sustainability efforts, being named a worldsteel 2024 Sustainability Champion.
It also secured ResponsibleSteel site certification for its Phu My facility in Vietnam, marking a notable achievement in the Southeast Asian steel industry.
BlueScope’s CEO, Mark Vassella, emphasised the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community development across the 15 countries where it operates.
Emission reduction milestones
According to the report, in New Zealand, BlueScope’s Glenbrook site is undergoing a transformative upgrade with the construction of an electric arc furnace (EAF).
This project, in partnership with the New Zealand government, is expected to reduce the site’s Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 55 per cent. BlueScope’s Delta, Ohio steel mill in North America has contributed to a 12 per cent reduction in steelmaking emissions intensity since 2018.
In Australia, BlueScope is exploring lower-emission ironmaking technologies, including the use of natural gas and hydrogen. These developments could reduce GHG emissions by as much as 85 per cent, marking a step towards BlueScope’s long-term goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Community and workplace safety initiatives
Safety remains a top priority for BlueScope, with the company reporting several key safety initiatives in 2024. A global “Refocus on Safety” program was launched to address safety risks in high-risk activities, including the cleaning of live equipment.
However, BlueScope reported four incidents in FY2024 that resulted in permanent incapacities, underscoring the continued importance of safety innovations.
BlueScope also emphasised its efforts to foster an inclusive workplace. The company maintained its target gender balance for its Board and Executive Leadership Team (ELT), with women representing 25 per cent of its workforce globally.
In New Zealand, BlueScope received the Inclusive Workplace award at the Diversity Awards NZ for its progress in gender equity and inclusivity.
Collaboration for a sustainable future
To further its decarbonization goals, BlueScope has partnered with leading Australian iron ore producers Rio Tinto and BHP to investigate the feasibility of Australia’s first ironmaking electric smelting furnace (ESF).
This collaboration could help pave the way for near-zero GHG emissions in steel production, utilizing renewable energy and direct reduced iron (DRI) technology.
Additionally, BlueScope continues to prioritise circularity within its operations, focusing on the durability, reuse, and recyclability of steel products.
The company said it is working closely with universities, industry partners, and customers to address sustainability challenges, from designing longer-lasting products to reducing the carbon footprint of steel across its lifecycle.
For more information about BlueScope Steel’s sustainability initiatives and to view the full report, visit bluescope.com.
