How voestalpine is Leading the Charge in Sustainable Metal Production

Sustainability is no longer a buzzword in the metals industry—it’s an urgent necessity. At voestalpine High Performance Metals International, we’ve made sustainable metal production a cornerstone of our strategy. As a leader in this field, we continuously develop innovative solutions to reduce emissions, optimize energy usage, and create a circular economy in metal production.

What Does Sustainable Metal Production Mean?

Sustainable metal production focuses on reducing the environmental impact of manufacturing processes. This includes lowering CO₂ emissions, minimizing waste, and recycling materials. For us at voestalpine, it means embracing cutting-edge technologies and partnerships that align with global climate goals. Our approach extends beyond compliance – we aim to set new industry standards.

Embracing Green Steel Technology

At the heart of our sustainability initiatives is the shift toward green steel. Traditional steel production relies heavily on coal-based blast furnaces, which emit significant CO₂. Instead, we invest in electric arc furnaces (EAFs), which use electricity to melt scrap steel and other inputs. This process significantly reduces carbon emissions compared to conventional methods. We also pioneer the use of hydrogen as a reducing agent in steelmaking. Hydrogen eliminates CO₂ emissions from this stage of production, offering a clean and sustainable alternative. While this technology is still developing, we actively collaborate with industry leaders to accelerate its adoption.

Reducing Waste Through Circular Economy Practices

A circular economy minimizes waste by reusing and recycling materials. At voestalpine, we’ve implemented robust recycling systems across our facilities. By repurposing production by-products, such as slag and mill scale, we conserve resources and reduce landfill waste. For instance, our Böhler and Uddeholm brands have embraced scrap steel recycling as a standard practice. By integrating high-quality recycled steel into our manufacturing processes, we maintain our commitment to premium materials while supporting sustainability.

The Role of Additive Manufacturing in Sustainability

Additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, is another area where we lead the way. This technology uses powdered metals to build components layer by layer. It minimizes material waste compared to traditional subtractive methods like machining. For industries like aerospace and automotive, additive manufacturing also enables lightweight designs that improve fuel efficiency. By producing only what is needed and recycling unused powder, we achieve both cost savings and environmental benefits. Our high-performance powders are optimized for this process, ensuring superior results while reducing waste.

Energy Efficiency: A Key Pillar of Sustainability

Sustainability is not just about reducing materials; it’s also about using energy efficiently. Our facilities employ energy recovery systems that capture heat from manufacturing processes and convert it into usable power. These measures help reduce overall energy consumption. We also participate in renewable energy projects. Many of our sites, including those in Austria and Germany, source electricity from wind and solar power. These efforts contribute to reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and lowering our carbon footprint.

Collaborating for a Greener Future

Sustainability requires collaboration. At voestalpine, we work closely with suppliers, customers, and research institutions to create more sustainable value chains. For example, partnerships with industries like automotive and tooling help us develop materials tailored for energy-efficient applications. We also actively support global initiatives like the Paris Climate Agreement. By aligning our goals with these frameworks, we demonstrate our commitment to combating climate change on a global scale.

Why Sustainability Matters for Our Customers

Customers today demand more than just high-performance materials—they expect accountability and transparency. By choosing voestalpine, you’re not only investing in premium products but also supporting a company dedicated to environmental responsibility. Our innovations in sustainable metal production help customers reduce their own environmental impact. Whether it’s through lightweight materials for electric vehicles or durable steels for wind turbines, we ensure our products contribute to a greener world.

Looking Ahead: Our Vision for Sustainability

The journey toward sustainability is ongoing. At voestalpine, we remain committed to driving change in the metals industry. By continuing to innovate and collaborate, we aim to achieve carbon neutrality in the coming decades. This isn’t just a goal—it’s a responsibility we take seriously.

Go green with voestalpine

Are you ready to make sustainability a priority in your business? Contact us today to learn more about how voestalpine can support your goals. Explore our range of green steel solutions, additive manufacturing services, and high-performance materials designed for a sustainable future.